When Breath Becomes Air

About the Author

PAUL KALANITHI was an extraordinary individual who wore two important hats in life: that of a neurosurgeon and a writer. He had a deep passion for understanding both the complexities of the human mind and the beauty of literature. He walked the path of education with dedication, graduating from Stanford with degrees in English literature and human biology, and further pursuing his interests with an M.Phil in the history and philosophy of science and medicine from Cambridge.

Paul’s journey took him to the Yale School of Medicine, where he excelled and was honored by induction into the Alpha Omega Alpha national medical honor society. He then returned to Stanford, continuing his learning through residency training in neurological surgery and a postdoctoral fellowship in neuroscience. His commitment and hard work led him to receive the highest award for resident research from the American Academy of Neurological Surgery.

Tragically, Paul’s life was cut short in March 2015, leaving behind his beloved family – his wife Lucy and their daughter Elizabeth Acadia. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the work he accomplished.

If you find yourself facing a similar journey, know that you are not alone. Paul’s story highlights the dedication and pursuit of knowledge that he embraced, and his connection with the world of medicine and literature can be a source of inspiration as you navigate your own path.