29/08/2026
For my little brother on his birthday 🤍
"If I make it, I will spend the rest of my life serving people and working for the cause."
He said these words when conventional medicine had given up, when there were no options left and we were trying whatever else we could to keep hope alive. He had held on to hope for a long time, but those words stayed with me.
And then life happened. Perhaps the way I knew how to carry the pain was to add more life to it — work more, live more, party harder, keep moving. Somewhere in between, I was also trying to honour his wish, helping underprivileged patients navigate a healthcare system that could be so difficult to navigate alone. And then life took over — marriage, moving to Belgium, building a new life — and somewhere along the way, the pain became quieter.
Until cancer came back into my own life.
This time, it broke me. But not for long.
Because somewhere in the process of putting myself back together, I found a path of service. A path that I don't think is entirely mine.
Today, through patient advocacy, whole-person care, healing and supporting people affected by cancer, I realise that I am carrying a little piece of his vision with me.
Perhaps some dreams don't end when the person who dreamt them is no longer here. Perhaps they find another heart to continue through.
Today, on his birthday, I want to remember not only the brother I lost, but the person he was — his incredible strength, resilience, uniqueness and compassion, and the courage with which he faced the unimaginable.
He was such a softie at heart — a true friend to his friends, someone who loved social connection, community and bringing people together. And perhaps that was one of our strongest common traits — our love for people and connection.
I don't know if I am fulfilling the promise he once made. But I know that the work I do today carries his memory, his intention and a part of his vision with me.
I know he's holding my hand.
Happy birthday, my little brother.
Wherever you are, I hope you are at peace. Sending you love and light, always. 🤍