It was in Nobember 1999, I first met Sir Robert Twycross. He was the principal faculty for the foundation course, my first formal training in Palliative Care. His passion towards Palliative Care was palpable in each of his sessions. I was spellbound by his lectures and teaching methodologies. He was a regular faculty for the Palliative Care sessions in Calicut, Kerala when we had only foundation courses as the formal training programs.
His unflagging fervor towards Palliative Care always inspired me. He continued to support us with his book – Introduction to Palliative Care (IPC) to be published as the Indian economy edition to facilitate the Palliative Care training in India. We never felt he was an overseas faculty, when he stood with during the clinical discussions and home visits. It is a indeed a loss not only for the Palliative Care fraternity, but to the mankind. He was the epitome of compassion in healthcare and passion in mentoring. We miss you, but are sure that your teachings will guide us in raising the bar of Palliative Care education in India.
Adieu Sir Robert Twycross… May your gentle soul attain eternal peace.