My mentor and friend died suddenly while I was at work. The memory of his kindness kept me going | Ranjana Srivastava

Mike and I met more than 30 years ago .

Mike gave me my first job, settling the nerves of the medical students.

He attended my wedding and brought my children thoughtful gifts when he came to dinner.

Fifteen years ago , Mike suffered a devastating stroke.

He was often insensate and when awake had no meaningful use of limb or language.

The nurses were caring but the loss of his dignity was scathing.

Ranjana Srivastava is an Australian oncologist, award-winning author and Fulbright scholar.

Her friend, G, became a role model for honouring our relationships despite the demands of life.

She picture Mike ’s satisfaction that the two of us, brought together by him, stop to reflect on a life and legacy that couldn’t have been scripted, at least not by two doctors.