Raghav was a busy doctor who specialized in oncology. He had an unique charm that appealed to his patients and relaxed them even in pain. 

One day, he was on  his usual rounds, when a painful voice startled him.  He went in the direction of the sound and saw a fragile lady, all crawled up to the corner of the bed. She was treated by his friend, Dr. Abdul. 

“Is it hurting so much ma’am”? He asked. The lady slowly opened her eyes. Her voice was feeble, yet clear. ” Aren’t you Raghav from AIIMS?” Raghav was shocked and replied in affirmation. “Yes ma’am, I am Raghav. I am sorry, I didn’t recognise you”.

The lady signalled to sit up. He helped her and let out a gasp of despair as he saw her face. He felt numb and felt his stethoscope slipping from his hand. 

“Vani ma’am, what happened to you? How did you end up here? Oh God! How could I not recognise you? ” 

Vani, holding Raghav’s hand firmly, looked at Abdul who was shell shocked and said, “His voice was so familiar. How could I forget my student? “

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash