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Embracing Loss: Reflections on Aging, Loss, and Legacy from a Doctor Daughter’s Perspective

Reflections on Aging, Loss and Legacy

In the tapestry of life, loss and grief are inevitable, yet they serve as a reminder of the profound beauty and fragility of life.  Six months have passed since the departure of my beloved mother. As I navigate through the labyrinth of emotions that accompany grief, I find solace in reflecting on the journey that brought us here and the invaluable insights gained from witnessing the aging process and the inevitability of death.

My mother was a pillar of strength, a beacon of resilience, who embodied the essence of a South Asian immigrant navigating the tumultuous seas of life in a foreign land. Our family’s journey began in 1973 when we fled Uganda following Idi Amin’s expulsion of all South Asians… She and my father arrived in the United States with little more than hope and determination. The years passed swiftly, marked by the trials and triumphs inherent in the immigrant experience. After the untimely early passing of my father, I witnessed the unbelievable strength, dedication and bravery of my mother in raising two children, ensuring we were educated and followed our dreams of becoming a doctor and a lawyer.  Despite the challenges she faced, my mother remained steadfast in her resolve, her unwavering faith serving as a guiding light for our family through the darkest of times.

We enjoyed many years celebrating graduations, weddings, anniversaries, births of her grandchildren, and precious family time. My brother and I even convinced her to move to California and leave our childhood home in NY after 30 years. 

Indeed, watching our parents age is a journey fraught with emotion, one that evokes a myriad of feelings ranging from love and gratitude to fear and sadness.  Even though, as a doctor, I face mortality on a regular basis, the harsh reality of our parent’s mortality is a reality that is often difficult to accept.

In her final years, as I watched her health decline, I realized the profound impact that my chosen profession had on my family dynamic. My mother looked to me not only as her daughter but also as her advocate and confidante, trusting in my expertise to guide her through the challenges of aging with dignity and grace.

Yet, amidst the cultural complexities, there is a universal truth that transcends borders and boundaries: the importance of compassion and empathy in the face of suffering. Regardless of background or belief, every patient deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, their wishes honored as they navigate this final chapter of their lives.

In my own practice, I have found that the key to navigating end-of-life conversations lies in approaching each patient as an individual, recognizing that their journey towards death is as unique as their fingerprints… As a doctor, I strive to create a safe space where patients feel comfortable expressing their fears, hopes, and desires, drawing upon the wisdom of their faith to navigate this final journey. These conversations are never easy, and we can all pat ourselves on the back for doing the best we can.

Through the lens of my South Asian upbringing and my medical training, I have learned that the greatest gift we can give our loved ones is the gift of presence, of being there for them in their time of need and guiding them through life’s most profound transitions with grace and dignity. 

Read Also: Longevity Unveiled: Exploring Peter Attia’s Guide to Healthy Aging

Prerana Sangani, MD, MPH, June, 2024

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