A Strange Relativity: Altered Time for Surgeon-Turned-Patient

Paul Kalanithi, MD, was a Stanford neurosurgeon who was diagnosed with lung cancer in his mid-30s. He wrote a popular op-ed for The New York Times in early 2014 on confronting mortality. Here, he reflects on his changing perception of time as doctor, patient and new father. He died at 37 on March 9. The Stanford community mourns his loss.

[bullybushpgd]

I came here after reading the book, feels so good to hear his real voice and him talking, RIP Dr.Kalanithi

[brooklyncole]

I just finished reading his book. What an inspirational man. Absolutely a gift he gave to me and the rest of the world. I fell in love with his ambition and his words and also his own family. Feeling the pain and love he had. He has inspired me to keep going on. And I don't even have a reason to give up. Just depression. I would love to thank him if only he was here, but I suppose I will thank him even more by continuing on with my own life's journey.

[oheycoolkid]

A remarkable man. An exquisite writer, doctor and scientist. The world has truly suffered a great loss.

[cizia]

Rest in peace beautiful man, thank you for standing tall among men. May you and your family be blessed in those times of shattering changes.

[sera_makyuri]

Been diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer a month ago. Have just finished Dr Kalanithi's awe-inspiring book while waiting for the dreaded chemotherapy. Thank you for all you’ve done for us by writing 'When breath becomes air'. May you rest in peace amongst the stars and constellations.

[yololocalmusic]

I just finished your book and cried alot. It reminded me of the Carl Sagan quote "Writing is perhaps the greatest of human inventions, binding together people, citizens of distant epochs, who never knew one another. Books break the shackles of time-proof that humans can work magic." I know you have passed on, but I like to think you can read this anyway. Not to worry, Doc. You did good as a neurosurgeon AND a writer!

[marlsteve]

I just finished his book and added it to my FAVORITE BOOKS EVER list which has only 32 books listed in my almost 75 years of life(as an English major, so I've read quite a few--good ones!!!).  It is beyond tragedy that we've lost this man, who was one of the most humane doctors who ever lived.  But he fulfilled the goal of his book.  He authentically faced life and death and was a seer to lead all who read it to do the same.

[prettyvisitor]

even if this video was shot only before a month, he had died, he looks so peaceful. He looked in the eye of the death and faced it bravely! Really appreciate this man!

[monnieholanda]

His call was to be a writer. I'm glad he somehow got to achieve that too. Il die with this man in my heart

[shwetanshusingh]

Rip Sir, i have just done with my Medical School. You have inspired me to give my best to Humanity!

[vi]

when breath becomes air, thanks for writing the book! Rest in peace-- love from China.

[maryamyusuf]

Searched for him here after finishing his book today. He's such a strong and extremely intelligent individual. I am glad to see him in motion on here.

[kolz]

Just Finished Paul's book. Wow. That hit me very hard. It was a magnificent read, and I give him immense praise for his ambition in trying to understand death and the relation it has to a meaningful life. My deepest condolences to his friends and family. I am forever grateful that he decided to write a book.
Rest in peace, Paul. <3

[howardchen]

Rest in paradise Dr. Kalanithi. Thank you for your existence, and blessings to your family. You will live on.

[darksideofthenation]

My mother passed away from the same disease at the age of 56 about two years ago. She never smoked either. Please give more support to lung cancer patients, especially stage four lung cancer patients!!!

[juliananjeri]

I have no words to describe how paul kalanithi's book has impacted me, I just finished reading a few hours ago... what a great and brave man he was... keep resting doctor, your book is changing so many lives out here... RESPECT👐

[RobynMcIntyre]

He was as much a writer as a scientist. A terrible loss.

[MatMabee]

His view on life gives a unique perspective that not many others could show. This is outstanding.

[fredkuo]

I just finished the book in Chinese version. OMG, what a loss to this world. Gotta be nice to yourself, treasure every second you got

[ankitasuman]

I'm crying right now, just finished the book. I'm so grateful I own this book. Different people will relate to this in different ways, but all of us need it. I wish I can personally thank him and tell him how much impactful his words are, and can change a person completely, in a beautiful way.