Wednesday, June 10

Living For A Cause That Matters...

Have you ever been inspired by someone you have never met? Have you just seen someone on TV or elsewhere, or heard their voice on the radio and have felt that that person is an ideal humanbeing that inspired your own life in a way that not even your loved-ones can? Well I have come across such a person in my life. I really don't know how to pay tribute to a remarkable humanbeing like him, cos I don't have enough words in my vocabulary to do him perfect justice. Words totally fail me as the person I'm about to talk about is a mountain of pure wisdom, humanity, class, compassion, dedication, devotion and charisma. He is none other than one of the best Cancer surgeons in Australia, Professor Chris O'Brien, who sadly passed on last week at the age of 57. I have always been in awe of him eversince the days I started watching The Royal Prince Alfred hospital's TV series, RPA. Doctor Chris O'Brien appeared on the show quite regularly for many years, and the way he talked to his patients, his expertise in the field, his tireless approach to head and neck Cancer reasearch, his brilliant reputation as a Cancer surgeon not only in Australia but also overseas and most of all his smiling face and undivided attention and care he gave to his patients are what most Aussies will never forget. The most amazing yet heartbreaking aspect about his life is that Dr.Chris O'Brien himself was diagnosed with brain cancer just 2yrs ago and was given only 6months to live. However, he didn't stop smiling. I remember how he came on 60mins (check that interview Never Say Die over here) in 2007 to speak openly about his illness, he didn't look like he lost his charm or wit. He was absolutely positive in every way and was thrilled to be alive (in his own words). This was a world-renowned brain cancer surgeon, who himself was diagnosed with the same type of Cancer and yet managed to work through the very short time on Earth he was given, to build a Lifehouse for future cancer research and patients. He never gave up on his dream til the last minute of his life...and his dream was to care for others. As a doctor, he not only excelled in his medical profession but also as a great humanbeing. He was an exceptionally remarkable humanbeing, a rare soul, that didn't think too much about himself but dedicated his time and energy on others, and for making the lives of others better. I believe he was an angel sent down to Earth for a short period, to make such an impact on others through his deeds and to inspire people like us to do good always, to help others and not to be selfish for this life somehow ends for all of us...it ended for doctor Chris O'Brien way before anyone had expected! If such a clever and great humanbeing faced both life and death in such a positive way, and managed to stare death in the face yet keep smiling, then I'm sure you and I can too. We can do almost anything, if we have the will. Don't let life's small worries rob you of your smiles.


Professor Chris O'Brien, someone I have never met but feels like I've known him all my life, taught me from his own life and death that the best qualities about a person don't reside in their profession or their assets or their health. They reside in their ATTITUDE. No matter what you face in life, I hope you don't lose your charm, your humor, your cool and your charisma. Cos people will always remember you for not how much you had, but for how much you gave back to life. Professor Chris O'Brien gave it all to others, with no expectations at all. And he never lost his humor in the face of adversity, cos he was smart enough to realise that some things in life are not within our control...so it's really no point brooding over it. He refused to bow down to his Cancer..instead he co-existed peacefully with it and actually triumphed his final battle with it by working for a great cause until his last breath. What really matters in life? Dr.O'Brien's life tells me that what really matters is doing your best, giving it your best shot and helping this world to be a better place, even if your life is not the best or is ending. Ourselves is not the most important thing in the world...helping those in need is a great sign of a well-lived life. He lived for a cause that really matters. Now that kind of attitude is very hard to find. I agree Dr.O'Brien, Never say die, for people may die but their deeds don't. Your good deeds will neither die nor be forgotten. He saved so many lives and continued saving them while he himself was dying. Long live the legacy of Dr.Chris O'Brien!


His death last week is a huge loss that is hard to express and I'm sure that anyone who knew him would know what I mean. Cos I really can't do enough justice to his legacy through this blog post. It's so unfair by him, but I hope that my readers here will realise what a special person he was and that this is not a post just to praise a good doctor but it is to give you a small glimpse of an amazing spirit that touched and inspired alot of people in many ways that I cannot express enough. He has been honored with a State funeral (tomorrow) and that is not something that happens quite often, and it just goes to show how much he has reached out to others in his short life. Dr.O'Brien we will miss you and your beautiful Attitude to life and others! Thank you for being an inspiration to so many people over the years! As always, we will remember your never-say-die SMILE. So long sir!



Current Music: Everybody Hurts by The Corrs

134 Cranium Signets:

Richa said...

awwww.. God bless such souls :)

reminded me of the book "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom :)

cancer is a deadly disease and anyone could be a victim of it..

but i really wish the find an eradication of it very soon.. painless and effective :)

Anonymous said...

Keshi,

This is a truly inspiring and touching post. And the one yardstick (though such things should not be judged at all) I use in such cases is to understand what my heart says: and generally in such cases it responds with a profound inspired silence that engulfs my entire being.

Indeed, it is the cruel irony of life's equations that Dr. O'Brien the champion cancer surgeon had to be taken by cancer too. But as you say how well he accepted that?! And there is no doubt whatsoever that given one's willpower and a sense of detachment to life's worries, nothing is unachievable.

Once again a great post:) And a bow to a great late doctor who I have not known too!

Nora said...

As a second yr med student [and prior to being diagnosed], I attended his lectures on neuro [Syd Uni]. I still have the discs and listened to them upon hearing of his death. Future medical students have lost a great teacher and medicine has lost an awesome doctor.

Nora

Vest said...

To desire and strive to be of some service to the world, to aim at doing something which shall really increase the happiness and welfare and virtue of mankind - this is a choice which is possible for all of us and surely it is a good target to aim for.

For nearly a decade bloggers have contributed to world peace, although a few glitches have marred bloggers intent to widen a better understanding between the differing peoples of our world. we are succeeding where world leaders have failed to understand the small details and the reasons what and why we are; our little foibles, our strange inherited habits our rights and wrongs our eating habits and the big culprit which creates division between our differing faiths, most of which are suffering from scientific and public scrutiny, thus making the less gullible doubt these fictous fairy stories but in turn realize the love hope and charity segments of all followings are the basis of understanding each other and helping each other without prejudice. unfortunatly the element of fear, punishment and ignorance bars the way to better understanding. and bloggers are doing their very best to defeat that element.
Well done Keshi.x. A Great Post.
To a Great Man.

Anwesa said...

the post was truly inspiring.
may his soul rest in peace!

Cazzie!!! said...

Yes, I too paid tribute to this lovely man, and I watched RPA tonight, what a sorry World this is for losing him :(

Rià said...

That was such an awe inspiring post!! The way he was given only 6 momths to live reminded me of my previous on death.

I think what he did is incredible. I cant help looking up to such ppl who dedicate their life to such causes. And whats so remarkable abt them is the never say die attitude.

I had never read abt him, i owe u for sharing a post on this wonderful person who was truly a god sent angel on earth!!

May his soul rest in peace.

krystyna said...

Why good people leave so quickly? Thank you, Keshi for this beautiful post about a beautiful soul.

"If such a clever and great humanbeing faced both life and death in such a positive way, and managed to stare death in the face yet keep smiling, then I'm sure you and I can too. We can do almost anything, if we have the will. Don't let life's small worries rob you of your smiles."

It is very inspiring.

Hugsss

Jeevan said...

I could tell that you’re one of my inspiration keshi. And again this blog brings me courage. Just through you I know now Mr.Chris O'Brien, if not we never know this charming Chris. I feel for him in behalf and like he says ‘never say die‘because he lives with everyone know him for his attitude.

Priya Joyce said...

I now exactly know what "being out of words" means..

coz Now I am short(out) of words to express what I feel about his..

Hats off to him...
:)

Arv said...

God bless his soul...

Mysterious Mia said...

hey babes that sure is inspiring...
may his soul rest in peace

ZB said...

i am really moved, beyond words. This is so inspirational, thanks for this.May his soul rest in peace.

Cяystal said...

God surely blesses such great people. Amen to that!
Some people know how to make a lot of their life, while others help people around them to do the same. Cheers to such souls.

Margie said...

Such a beautiful post about a truly wonderful & inspiring man written by another wonderful & inspiring person!!!

So sad that this amazing man is gone!

Your post was a wonderful tribute, just wonderful!
Thank you, dear Keshi.

Luv ya!

Margie

Vishesh said...

There are so many people who inspire us...it is that which gives us more strength and makes us feel that humanity is wonderful... the light shines the brightest

P.S:- Try to use a pop up for links or open in a new tab ..and of course loved your message when i tried to right click to open in a new tab ;) Oh btw ctr +c works though :D

Anonymous said...

May his soul really rest in peace...
So thoughtful of you to write this post!

Anonymous said...

his smile is so cute,, even during his painful times, he has given his best smile for that photo..

Anonymous said...

Keshi, is it not funny how so many people that we don't know or that we may never see in our whole lives press something upon is that we cannot get rid of!

How they grace us with their smile and we know that they are a great caring person!

May G-d Bless His Soul.. And he rest in eternal shalom!!

I have had many people like that in my life..

Ne

Shachi said...

aha - didnt know about him but truly inspiring. Has he written any book?

Nice post!

Suresh Kumar said...

Truly inspiring soul....

Why Can't God allow such souls to live for a longer time on Earth?

Phoenix said...

may he rest in peace...

cancer right know to me is my worst nightmare come alive.. i have an aunt and a friends mum suffering from it and there is nothing much we can do...

stay healthy and stay safe

*hugs*

Hemanth Potluri said...

some people come to the world live to make others smile and they smile seeing those ....and they leave the world leaving some tears....

its heart touching post sweets....hats of to this doctor ... sometimes i wish i could say more abt such wonderful people ...but i will end up with out words....

i am soo glad u wrote abt this wonderful person ...

God bless his soul ..

urs..hemu..

Devika Jyothi said...

Nice tribute, Keshi :)

wishes,
devika

Tarun said...

Yeah such is life.

Something which comes to mind,immediately reading this post,is a case of a heart specialist in Mumbai who died of an heart attack, people use to say he was bloody damn good.He was human after all.

Second thing that came to my mind,is a Hindi movie called "Anand" it is one of the best tragedy movie ever made.
I think it is worth the watch never mind u not understanding much Hindi.
(silly me,just in case u dont try sub titles :P)

Third thing, there is this song from the movie Muqddar ka Sikandar ... (The Champion of Fate).

The songs goes like this .... "Rote huye aate hain sub hasta hua jo hayega .... woh Muqddar ka siknadar khelayega ..."
"People come crying in this world, but those who leave with a smile on their face are the champs of fate."

Dr Chris O'Brien was definitely some one who won over fate.

You are immortal if people sing your praise generations after you dwell no more.

Well consider this a blog post.

The reason to blog is too short a day too long a night of staying awake and watching cricket matches.

:P

Hopefully weekend spares me an hour for my blogs.

Deepti said...

Great post Kesh.. and in your little way you made so many of us think of him .. there are so many people who work selflessly .. without any need for adulation.. going on as though its a part of their lives and nothing special .. yet they touch so many lives and remain immortal through their actions!!

♥ÐÅyÐяєÅмє®♥ said...

I just pray his dedication don't remain unanswered in the next world...

but it was indeed a great post... :)
loved reading it :)

White Magpie said...

I wonder if there is a common thread running here (speaking about cancer). I have this extremely close friend called Joanie in Victoria. She works as a nurse in the oncology ward for a hospital and is the most vivacious, positive and gutsy spirit I have ever met. Having such a spirit in the face of seeing death everyday is what makes it so special and astounding. Maybe that's what makes these people so positive and brave.

But the lesson is definitely here to be learnt from there. Be positive and upbeat. What's max that will happen to us in adversity? Hugs and keep that chin up.

Nirmal said...

may his soul rest in peace......

White Magpie said...

BTW, I don't know how to pronounce the first responder to your post. But "Tuesdays with Morrie" was brilliant. Even The Last Lecture was nice.

The Grunt said...

Nice tribute to Dr. O'Brien, Kesh. It's people like him that funded the research that made my treatments more effective, essentially turning a death sentence into an 80% shot at surviving. We still have a long way to go as well as finding a way that doesn't make you feel worse than the disease itself.

joie de vivre said...

rest in peace!!
After reading you about Prof Chris i felt something like more of humankind..some force to think more about others and perform something for humanity.

Pat said...

Awww - thank you for this post Keshi! I really needed it and its timing is perfect. You know a bit of my current woes, and you also likely know I myself am a cancer survivor. The differece between the way my son is facing his issues and the way his father is facing his - is worlds apart! My Ex has never, ever learned selflessness or cheerfulness or positivity. Now that his health is failing fast, he is trying desparately to drag our son and me down with him. And our son is dealing with his own serious health issues. Arrrrgghh. In any event, when I hear stories of people like Dr. O'Brien or MC's Don - it warms my heart and renews my faith that the entire world is not as "down and ugly" as my Ex is. So, again, thank you for this post Keshi. Awesome! And God Speed Dr. O'Brien...you are at peace at long last. Thank you for your short time with us, and we know you are continuing to look after us.

MARIA said...

How true it is what you said.
Thank you for sharing.

Have a happy and funny day!

Margie said...

Hi dear Keshi ~
Just came by with a warm "hello"

Keep this in mind "You are loved!"
Wherever you go something wonderful will be there ~ YOU!!!

Not feeling so good today, have been in bed, a headache & feel achy!
I hate being sick but I have Sweet Jake right next to me in the bed.
He is so good for me!

HUGGGGGGGGZ!

Margie

Commander Zaius said...

His death last week is a huge loss that is hard to express and I'm sure that anyone who knew him would know what I mean. Cos I really can't do enough justice to his legacy through this blog post.

A remarkable post about a very special human being. You underestimate yourself Keshi. This post did do justice to Dr. O'Brien and his work for the betterment of the human condition. This is a deep and tragic loss not just for his family and patients but for everyone.
Maybe the only sense out of this can be for all of us to try to live up to his example.

Globescoper said...

Hi Keshi

A sad post, but most important, it inspires us to take that one good shot which life allows. Very few people are allowed second good shot.

Have a great weekend

Bev

Margie said...

I just read ur email, Keshi.
I can imagine just how overwhelming it must have been at Prof. O'Brien's funeral, but I think it's wonderful that u went.

You mentioned about wanting to follow in Prof. O'brien's footsteps and be a role-model for someone (at least in a small way)
Well, swthrt, u are a role-model, you are a role-model to me and I'm sure too many others!
I have gotten so much inspiration and love from you!
Just keep on being the wonderful, special person you are.
You touch many lives in a very special way!

Oh, I'm not really sad, just not feeling so great!

Luv ya, Keshi!

Margie

Nadine said...

Sounds like an amazing man and doctor. His presence will be missed by all who loved him and I'm sure those like yourself who admired him.

Keshi said...

ty Richa!

**cancer is a deadly disease and anyone could be a victim of it..

it just goes to show how Cancer doesnt discriminate, yes.

If Cancer knew what it means to the world to keep ppl like Dr.O'Brien alive, it wud never hv even come close to him!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Srini that was a truly encouraging comment!

** and generally in such cases it responds with a profound inspired silence that engulfs my entire being.

Thats exactly how Dr.O'Brien made us all feel over the years from the RPA TV series. He was much more than a doctor...he was the kindest, most u'standing and compassionate humanbeing I've ever seen. He had an aura abt him that was infectious and very curing.



** cruel irony of life

it is. And like u said, it's how he handled it that gives us all courage to face whatever that Life throws at us. I cud draw a whole lot of strength from Dr.O'Brien's attitude!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

Nora my dear then u hv had the greatest opportunity of being a student of such a great person. How wonderful!


**Future medical students have lost a great teacher and medicine has lost an awesome doctor.

It is a very big loss!

His skill is unamatchable and Aus is poorer now for not hvn him ard.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Vesty!


**To desire and strive to be of some service to the world, to aim at doing something which shall really increase the happiness and welfare and virtue of mankind - this is a choice which is possible for all of us and surely it is a good target to aim for.


Amen! yet only a very few ppl take up that challenge, irrespective of what their immediate families say or what it may hold for them in the future, and swim against the tide to actually achieve something that great for the world and mankind.


Prof O'Brien excelled in his profession, and set new and exceptional standards not only for other Doctors but also for all Humanbeings.



**understanding each other and helping each other without prejudice

I agree wholeheartedly! Part of the reason (a major part actually) why Im still here, is to promote that u'standing among all ppl in this world. Blogger is a great avenue to reach out to ppl and change certain stone-engraved mentalities.


*HUGZ* tnxx for the inspiring comment Vesty!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Anwesa!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

Caz I cannot express enough what a tragedy it is for the world of medicine to lose a man like him. Not only cos he was an excellent doc but also cos he was a wonderful man...a patient's best friend, his bedside manners and his unforgettable sense of humor.
That quality is hard to find in every doc.


I can rem in one episode of RPA, how he told one of his dying patients (a severe brain Cancer case) 'u gotta smile...dun look so sad cos it makes me depressed u see' which actually made the patient burst out in laughter. Thats the kind of therapeutic doc he was!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Ria!

yes, as I said to u before, he threw a huge party for his fam n friends in the last week of his life. Cos thats the way he wanted to celebrate life and leave this world, as a HAPPY person.


** And whats so remarkable abt them is the never say die attitude.

Spot on!


Ria he recently wrote a book (among many other books previously written) called NEVER SAY DIE. It's sold out right now and I hv ordered one for myself. u can get it urself on the net, if u wanna read it. I heard its an awesome book.


Cant wait to get my hands on it!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Krys!

**Why good people leave so quickly?

I always wondered abt it. Its hard to comprehend why an angel is taken so quickly when so many devils r still alive making this place a hell for others!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Jeevan!

If I could be of ANY inspiration to u at all, then Im the happiest person on Earth :) *HUGZ*


Keshi.

Keshi said...

aww Joyce maybe it's time to share a HUG? :)

*HUGZ*


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Arv!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

hey Mia ty!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Zillion!

**i am really moved, beyond words.

thats how everyone who knew Dr.O'Brien feels whenever they watched RPA over the years. He had an aura that reached us all thru our TVs and changed our lives for the better!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Crystal!

**Some people know how to make a lot of their life, while others help people around them to do the same


true...ppl like Dr.O'Brien inspired so many ppl to do good, w.o. even hvn to tell anyone specifically!

He set an example by living it.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

hey Margie ty sweetie HUGS!

Im no way near him :) He's a GIANT of compassion n skill n unconditional dedication to service. Im a mere passerby watching his good deeds. But I wish to be like him...do my best for whoever needs my help, even in the smallest way.

If we cant do that, then there's something very wrong with us.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Vish!

**There are so many people who inspire us...

yes there r many who inspire us but out of those ppl, only very few can truly reach out to so many hearts in the manner Dr.O'Brien did here in Aus. Hence the outpour of love and respect for him...it's just overwhelming!


btw I hv now enabled right-click for ur convenience ;-)


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Fiducia!

I didnt even hv to make a special effort to write this post...he was a special man so the post came naturally. Altho Im not sure if I did his legacy enough justice.

Keshi.

Keshi said...

Chriz there was a never a time that he didnt smile!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Ne!

**is it not funny how so many people that we don't know or that we may never see in our whole lives press something upon is that we cannot get rid of!


that is so very true! Unknowingly these ppl put something 'magical' into our being, and they become a part of our deeds.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

Yes Shachi he's written many books...the last one being NEVER SAY DIE. I hv ordered my copy!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Suresh!

**Why Can't God allow such souls to live for a longer time on Earth?

exactly my dilemma too!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Phoenix!


**i have an aunt and a friends mum suffering from it and there is nothing much we can do...

Im so sorry to hear that! *HUGZ*

But there's ALOT u CAN do Raka. Cancer may be terminal but u can be there for ur Aunt n Friend in ways that will improve their outlook to life. u can go with them for the doc's appts/therapy sessions, u can drive them there or even take them out when there's no one for em to talk to..u can just send em positive notes/cards etc etc...u can make a HUGE difference just by BEING THERE for them.

Dr.O'Brien in one of his last TV Interviews said that he's in a good place cos he has alot of fam & friends' support in his most difficult times. He said that most of the patients that came to him over the years didnt hv much support...or even a friend to talk to. He also said that one of his patients had to catch 2 buses every single day, to get to the hospital where he got treated. And he said, thats why he thinks that he's in a good place.

Fam & friends' support makes a big difference when someone is ill.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Hemz!

yes ur right...some ppl come to this world to save alot of lives, put back the smiles on their faces and leave all of a sudden. Thats why I believe he's an angel. He inspired me so very much!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Devika!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Tarun!

What's the name of that Indian Heart Specialist? I'd like to read abt him.


**"People come crying in this world, but those who leave with a smile on their face are the champs of fate."

so very true! They r the real champs.

I know so many high-fliers in the coprporate world and the medical field too...but not all know how to SMILE and to REACH OUT.


**You are immortal if people sing your praise generations after you dwell no more.

Spot on!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Deepz!

**going on as though its a part of their lives and nothing special .. yet they touch so many lives and remain immortal through their actions!!

Thats exactly what Dr.O'Brien is. He never seeked recognition for his service. He was a genuine worker of HUMANITY.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Bro!


**I just pray his dedication don't remain unanswered in the next world...


I really hoped for that too. I was feeling very sad that such a wonderful man didnt get to live that long. He's a family guy too...with a wife and 3 young kids.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty White_Magpie!


**She works as a nurse in the oncology ward for a hospital and is the most vivacious, positive and gutsy spirit I have ever met.

thats cos she sees DEATH every single day, hence she knows the real value of LIFE and the need to SMILE often.


*HUGZ*


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Nirmal!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

White_Magpie thats Richa.


**Tuesdays with Morrie

yep I hv heard abt it but hvnt read it. Along with Dr.O'Brien's last book NEVER SAY DIE, I hv ordered that one too :)

TY!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Grunty!

**It's people like him that funded the research that made my treatments more effective, essentially turning a death sentence into an 80% shot at surviving.

So true. He funded his last dream too...which is the Lifehouse at RPA, which will commence construction in Dec 2009.


Cancer maybe a killer, but all Cancer survivors like u and Dr.O'Brien prove to me that the BODY may give up on us but our MIND can go on, from strength to strength.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Joi!


**After reading you about Prof Chris i felt something like more of humankind..some force to think more about others and perform something for humanity.


thats the kind of life-force he put in every single person that came across him!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

EC kudos to ya hun!

I know what ur going thru. Its not easy is it. But ur courageous and ur very brave. *HUGZ*


**Now that his health is failing fast, he is trying desparately to drag our son and me down with him.

thats what some ppl do...drag others into their misery. I really hope he'd stop doing that and give u 2 some peace that u so need.

All I can say is, never falter...not even at the hands of disease n death. If u hv a strong mind, u can hang on to every bit of life thats left in u, right to the end. I know I will. ;-)

MWAH n God bless!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Maria bella HUGS! :)

Keshi.

Keshi said...

Helloooo Margie! :)

U know everytime u feel not-so-great, think abt Keshi doing the moonwalk in ur blog. That will fix ya ;-)

*HUGZ*

Keshi.

Keshi said...

gee tnxx BB! :) Im happy then.


**Maybe the only sense out of this can be for all of us to try to live up to his example

so true! thats the promise I made to myself from yday.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Bev!

**but most important, it inspires us to take that one good shot which life allows. Very few people are allowed second good shot.


very well-said there!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

hey Margie ty!

Altho I dun deserve so much praise hehehe...Im just an insignificant in this big wide world. But I wanna follow the goodness of Dr.O'Brien. I wanna attempt to be like him and do something for someone out there to make their lives better...atleast in some small way.

Im not as gifted as he is, but I can try right? :)


**I have gotten so much inspiration and love from you!

u too babez MWAH!


And yes I was at his funeral at the St.Mary's cathedral yday, where it was choc-a-block! It was truly sad yet very comforting, cos his story is the trigger that will change many ppl's thought-pattern. He's a pioneer in Humanity.

Keshi.

Keshi said...

Nadine it's a huge loss that will be felt for years in Aus.

ty sweetie!

Keshi.

Tarun said...

His name was Dr. Nitu Mandke ...

:)

Margie said...

Ok, then I'm smiling now thinking of you doing the moonwalk in my blog...haha! That was just the fix I needed!
Now I can go to sleep with a big smile on my face!

Keshi, I plan on getting Prof. O'Brien's book, Never Say Die, too.

Never underestimate yourself, Keshi.
You do a lot for People & are a true source of inspiration.
I would never tell you that unless I really meant it!

Just writing about Prof. O'Brien here in this post shows how much you care & you wanted to share with others the goodness of another special person.
So many just want to brag about themselves, but not YOU!
YOU are a true caring & loving person!
Thanks for being a part of my life!

Good nite, hun.
I'm going to bed!

HUGGGGGGGZ!
Have a great weekend, ok!

Margie

Keshi said...

ty Tarun I shall stalk that doc's profile now ;-)

I just wanna draw some strength n inspiration from anyone that a life-giver out there.

Keshi.

Keshi said...

gee tnxx Margie! ;-)

I hv ordered that book already...Im thrilled that ur gonna get it too yey!


Well Margie if I take u (and some others here in my blog) out of the equation of my life, I'd be poorer for not knowing u. So u r truly an inspiration to me too! I hv often told u that and I plan to keep telling u that ;-)

To be honest, in a place like Blogville, where some ppl think it's a waste of time to be here etc, I find a magical inspiration...a reason to go on...a love thats constant...and ppl that r special.

dun u think so?


*HUGZ*

Keshi.

Margie said...

And I'd be poorer for not knowing u too, very poor!

**To be honest, in a place like Blogville, where some ppl think it's a waste of time to be here, etc, I find a magical inspiration...a reason to go on...a love that's constant...and ppl that r special.
Dun u think so? **
Yes, I do, keshi!
We think very much alike.

HUGGGGGGZ!
Now, I'm really going to bed!

Margie

Margie said...

One more thing I have to say, "God wanted to brighten the world, so He made you!"

And, thanks for being my sunny day, rainy day, everyday friend!

Time for sleep now.

More HUGS to you!

Margie

Tarun said...

Try Mother Teresa ...

I mean with all due respect, I have great amount of respect for her, she is also someone who did a lot asking for nothing.

But then, as u know, success is relative more the success more the relative.

I find it weird people just talking good things about good people and practically doing nothing. I can include myself in that list,I must confess.

I progressively feel some crucial ingredient is missing in all our lives.
:(

Keshi said...

Margie thats true...God sends ppl to influence us in many ways!

nite nite Margie! :)

And ty!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

yes Tarun, Mother Theresa was one other such person.

But u dun hv to be Mother Theresa or do the same kind of work to do some GOOD to the world. u can do it in ur own small way, and it still counts. Cos cmon, we all cant be O'Briens or Mother Theresas...these r few gifted ppl who hv that extra power to do something extraordinary, and in larger scale than an average person can.



**I find it weird people just talking good things about good people and practically doing nothing. I can include myself in that list,I must confess


Nothing wierd abt it :) Goodness, infact, should be talked abt and spread around. If we didnt talk abt any of these ppl, how poor our knowledge wud be? ppl like this should be talked abt cos it spreads awareness, opens up hearts and makes ppl wanna do good things.

Infact some the comments here already told me that alot of ppl r changing their thought-patterns after reading abt Dr.O'Brien, and that itself is a huge step Tarun.

Just cos someone reads abt a special person, they should not be expected to go and do the same. Its nearly impossible. But atleast, it becomes the Life force for some ppl. And Im sure Dr.O'Brien and Mother Theresa too got their inspiration from somewhere at the beginning...perhaps by reading/talking abt an equally inspirational person.

How else wud goodness be KNOWN?


Keshi.

Tarun said...

I wanted to highlight those people how talk good do BAD.
These people talk about it as though they have been doing the good all the while.

You know, cloak and dagger kinda thing.

Keshi said...

hey Tarun :)

**I wanted to highlight those people how talk good do BAD.


o I know that kind. I find alot of em in Blogville too. They write very divine posts abt being kind etc but when u email them, they dun even hv the courtesy to write back to u :) Thats kinda sad.


Keshi.

Tarun said...

Yeah,I never have mailed them though ... But I guess they are too busy and dont have time coz they are busy harping praise about themselves.


rofl.

Keshi said...

**coz they are busy harping praise about themselves

haha true!

Its amazing how some ppl who I thought of so highly really disappointed me from their behavior.

Its so easy to talk abt Goodness but its so very hard to live it.

ur right Tarun.


Keshi.

Tarun said...

Oh yes do good be good is something I could never practised, ever.
either I was being good or I was doing good.

:P

Tarun said...

I thought even I should clear my throat and try harping my own recently found goodness.

:D

- Sugar Cube - said...

Omg! How ironical & yet incredible!
Thanks for writing about him & sharing =)
I never knew of him.

Talking To My Soul said...

The answer to the first line of your post:I have not met you, K. But does that mean I have not been inspired?

Inspiration comes when your heart is able to connect with someone else's works, ideas and dreams instantly. Che continues to inspire many even today.

To Dr O' Brien, the great surgeon. To his works and his dreams. Amen.

*smilez*

DewdropDream said...

Dr. Chris reminds me of Patrick Stewart (professor Charles Xavier in X Men) for some reason!!

And hell yes I've been inspired by people I've never met. Authors mostly. Enid Blyton, Penny Porter, Harper Lee, Jean Webster to name a few ... they've inspired the way i think and isn't that the best kind of inspiration ever? :)

Touching post!

AmitL said...

Keshi,words fail me- to realize that there are such people in the world, who do selfless service, without expecting anything spectacular in return, is an eye-opener, indeed.Thanks indeed for this tribute. Gives me yet more inspiration to reach where I'm trying to reach- a state devoid of anger, irritation,and all such negative emotions!!
---
More news on my blog- hope you're aok..cheerio!!

AmitL

Jack said...

Keshi,

It is people like him in todays world who rekindle our faith in the human race. May God bless him with eternal peace. But on selfish note, may he be back soon in some other sphere where he is needed most.

Take care

Adisha said...

A beautiful post, in dedication of an unlikely hero. It's so true that the world is full of people who are special and worth admiring and so few of us know of them ...

But atleast there are those like you who let people know that they existed and touched your life !!

rainboy said...

Some people dare to dream and make a difference .He was certainly one of them.

A gr8 post Keshi...tells me a lot more about you.

take care and have a nice day

Anu said...

Keshi,

I didnt know about the good Doctor, this side of the world, thanks for introducing him to me, even though he is no longer physically here!

The Phosgene Kid said...

Don't go gently into that dark night.

Lucifer said...

now that m goin thru ur blog i have left a comment on each post keshi...looks like its my turn to say u r so busy that u have been overlookin me n my comments :P

Unknown said...

Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwww :(
Such a paradox

May God bless his soul and hope he finds peace.

Cess said...

very inspiring post, sad that he s been killed by what he fought everyday while working :(
thanks for this tribute Keshi :)
tc
C

Anonymous said...

Very touching... And inspiring indeed... May his soul rest in peace...

Keshi said...

Tarun its only by DOING good that u can really BE good. I know u DO good :)

Keshi.

Keshi said...

Cruel irony indeed Sugar.

tnxx hun!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

aww ty Soul n u too! Each and every blogger here has inspired me in some small way. My life is richer for knowing u all! Thats for sure.


**Inspiration comes when your heart is able to connect with someone else's works, ideas and dreams instantly

very true!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty DDD!

**Enid Blyton, Penny Porter, Harper Lee, Jean Webster to name a few ...

yes me too! alot of authors can reach into ur head and heart n wake u up to new sides/qualities in us.

I just bought Tuesdays With Morrie and I cant wait to read it :)


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Amit n hey WB :)

** Gives me yet more inspiration to reach where I'm trying to reach- a state devoid of anger, irritation,and all such negative emotions

definitely! He has made me wanna do the same. u know how I am when Im pissed off :) Now I'll think of Dr.O'Brien's wonderful smile and immense patience with all the ppl he came across, whenever I feel angry or low. I will aim try to reach atleast 1% of his kindness and tolerance.

He's a 'standard' I wanna live by.


Will come ard to ur blog asap.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Jack, ur comment made me all teary.


**It is people like him in todays world who rekindle our faith in the human race. May God bless him with eternal peace. But on selfish note, may he be back soon in some other sphere where he is needed most.


so very well said!

Godspeed!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Adisha!

** It's so true that the world is full of people who are special and worth admiring and so few of us know of them ...

yes and we should talk abt them to spread their magic around :) I hope this post will reach out to as many ppl as it can.

*HUGZ*

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Rabbit!

**Some people dare to dream and make a difference .He was certainly one of them.

yes and he never seeked recognition or honors for his service to ppl from all walks of lives. He never looked at the color/caste/creed etc..he only took em all as HUMANS n treated em with so much LOVE.

if u watched RPA series for years, u will know where this great admiration for him is coming from.

Keshi.

Keshi said...

Its my pleasure and my mission to intro such wonderful spirits to everyone else in the world.

@Anu

:) Im glad u liked reading this post and getting to know him.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

Phoso tnxx mate!

Keshi.

Keshi said...

Mayz is that all u cud say in a post where Im paying tribute to such a wonderful humanbeing?

Im disappointed (cos I expected u to do better).


Mayz u should know by now I dun blog for COMMENTS. If thats the msg u got when I said ur missing these days, then Im afraid u dunno me at all. I guess if I was here just for tit-for-tat comments, I should never hv been here in the first place. What say Mayz? :)


In a virtual world, I cant READ ur mind. I can only READ my blog/email. Thats what I meant when I said that it seems Im no longer ur 'regular' team.

No hard feelings. And I really dun wanna spoil this wonderful tribute post argueing abt comments etc. Im so over 'blog retribution' Mayz. ppl may not visit me as much as before anymore..but if they hv touched me in some small way, I will still visit them. Just like how I visit ya. :)

hv a good weekend!


Keshi.

Keshi said...

True Akanksha! Thats what makes his story even more special.

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Cess!

**sad that he s been killed by what he fought everyday while working

yes thats the hardest part to come terms with. When he was diagnosed 2yrs ago, it sent shockwaves ard Aus...ppl cried in total disbelief.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Kido! ty for seeing how special he was.

Keshi.

Blessed said...

Hi Miss Kesh!
I haven't been around in awhile but must say your layout is sooooo
pretty.
and now on to your question:
"Have you ever been inspired by someone you have never met? Have you just seen someone on TV or elsewhere, or heard their voice on the radio and have felt that that person is an ideal humanbeing that inspired your own life in a way that not even your loved-ones can?"

Most definitely!
Randy Pausch, have you heard of him?
And Todd Beamer, have you heard of him?
Please google them if you don't.
Amazing folks!

XXXXXXXXXXX

иidhi S said...

aaww.. swetie,... hugs first.
I knw wt it is to lose your loved ones to such disease. I wish a 0 pain cure is discovered soon for it.

Usha said...

people of that kind are much rare. But thank God for them.

I'd say we should consider ourselves lucky, if we could open our hearts and let our lives be inspired by people like this.

God bless his soul.

Keshi said...

MWAH Blessed so nice to see ya bak :)

ofcourse I know both the great men that u just mentioned. How can I not. They r amazing ppl, amazing life-forces, that reached out to even ppl like me across the seas.


Todd Beamer inspired me in many ways at the time of 9/11. I will never forget his courage and his face. It's ppl like them that wakes up the dormant strength in me.


Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Nidhi!

yes its a terrible disease, but even thru such diseases, some ppl SHINE. This post is abt such a person.


*HUGZ*

Keshi.

Keshi said...

ty Usha!

**I'd say we should consider ourselves lucky, if we could open our hearts and let our lives be inspired by people like this.

well-said! If we dun get inspired by ppl like them, then there's something very wrong abt us.



Keshi.

Satish Bolla said...

good to hear abt such a wonderful person. it's sad to see that people with a golden heart like him are lesser known than osama bin laden etc.

Keshi said...

hey Satish how r u? :)

**it's sad to see that people with a golden heart like him are lesser known than osama bin laden

very well-said there! I guess alot of ppl in this world r raving on abt ppl that dun even matter to anyone...and they speak less of ppl that really matter. Sadly.


Keshi.

Dalicia said...

hi keshi, sad to hear sad news.
we hope there will be a cure for this disease.

how are you doing? :)

Keshi said...

hey Dal Im good ty sweetie and urself? :)

Keshi.

♪♪Happy Go Lucky♪♪ said...

:O
i scroll through the whole page and realise i havent commented!!! but i remember commenting!! but maybe i didnt post it!
:O :O

:P
but will be back soon to comment :P

♪♪Happy Go Lucky♪♪ said...

that was such a wonderful post!

ive lived inspired by my teacher. she faced a lot, but always had a smile on her face. she had lost her son and her husband. and she was so friendly, it was so nice to talk to her!

Keshi said...

Harini thats wonderful to know. ppl who hv gone thru alot in life hv that kinda charisma and inspiration. we can draw some strength from em.

Keshi.

♪♪Happy Go Lucky♪♪ said...

keshi,
yeah i totally agree!! its helped me through so much!