Anoopa Sharma

Dear Anoopa,

Dylan and I hope that you enjoy seeing some well-wishing messages from your friends here on your new site. We all have confidence in your strength and courage--keep resting and improving.

With all my love,

Amy

Anoopa,

Im glad to see you have such great friends and family that are by your side for your support. As we know you would be right there for us. I wish you nothing but the best. Stay strong and positive as you always are.

Praying for you, Jason

We are praying for your speedy recovery and hope to see you well soon. Keep your sprits up!

Love,

Shweta and Mudit

A little note for a beautiful cousin...

Be strong as you have always been. I am confident that your path to recovery won't be long. I am praying for you.

With all my love and best wishes,

Amishi

Anoopa, bellissima,

I've been inspired by re-reading your Wheel columns, which overflow with your enthusiasm for life. Even while you're asleep, you shine your light on us all. I look forward to seeing you awake again, dazzling bright.

Love,

Jed

Hey Anoopa,

It's your roommate here. It is really hard coming home to a dark house and an empty spot in the driveway. I miss you and pray to God you will one day be able to know how much love your family and friends have for you. I am sorry that I did not make an even greater attempt than I did to know you more, to actively ask you, "What did you write in the Emory Wheel this week?," to hang out with you and your friends more when you invited me. When I went to the hospital, at your mom's request I brought your pictures -- along with your bulletin board. And for the first time, I had a chance to read all the sayings you'd collected, the postcards of the plays or the concerts that you'd seen or perhaps were planning to see. One scrap of paper has three things: 1) take your time to produce/write a piece of brilliance, letting discipline shape your thought, 2) indulge in healthy things, 3) don't sell yourself short.

Another piece of paper has written on it: "If we could see the miracle of a single flower closely, our whole life would change" -- Buddha.

Here's another thing I believe you wrote on a torn sheet of paper: "Live this day! Yesterday is but a dream and tomorrow is only a vision, but today well-lived makes every yesterday a dream of happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope. Never agonize over the past or worry over the future. Live this day and live it well."

Sometimes I wonder if perhaps we reveal ourselves best when we write.

When I read your Emory Wheel columns, I think how brave you are to put yourself out there, with your optimism and hope at a time when so many people can be so jaded. Perhaps, in a way, it is easier to be jaded; you do not have to come face to face with great disappointment. Yet to throw yourself out there, to the winds, is to open the door to a little risk, maybe a little hurt. You make yourself vulnerable, but I bet you wind up living more, because you are exposing yourself to the possibilities.

Your "making up time" column is a real keeper. You equate being late for the train station or school with being late for birthdays, parties and crucial moments in a person's life. You write that in the same way that there is a "certain critical time for action, after which all the running, or speeding on the highway, or racing down the platform isn't going to make a difference, and you're just going to miss the train" -- "we need to accept that 'making up for lost time' is equally impossible."

I will remember that. I have been running late for things quite a lot the last two years.

I like how each of your columns begins with a potential "so what" or "yeah yeah" premise (i.e. "It's often a struggle to figure out how to apply what we learn in the classroom to real life" -- for instance, statistics); ropes the reader in with a personal anecdote/observation, and hooks 'em for good with something satisfying and relevant, bringing the reader full circle with the premise in the beginning ("My chances are one in 12 as opposed to 0 -- if I didn't apply") -- and then, for the wine finish, your signature "Dooley Noted" thought of the week for people to reflect on ("You've got to try if you are going to have a shot: That's a probability lesson that can be applied outside of the classroom. Now what are the chances of that?")

Another keeper.

Hey Anoopa, what's in your there fist? Endless possibilities! Luckily, it is you who have been so brave enough to imagine them.

And so you must -- and will -- recover.

I will send you a book. It was written by Trisha Meili, and it's called I AM THE CENTRAL PARK JOGGER: A STORY OF HOPE AND POSSIBILITY. I will buy myself a copy too and read it. Many doctors didn't have much hope for her recovery, but she pretty much proved to be a testament to taking a brick and putting another on top of it, and another on top of that, and another on top of that. My understanding is that the book is deeply inspiring, healing, moving and in parts quite funny.

And so, I take comfort with the idea that you too will overcome.

Just tonight, I put your thermos up in the cupboard today. The one from Caribou Coffee. I now see how the thermos is "very Anoopa."

"Life is short. Stay awake for it."

So get your beauty rest, and then wake up soon, ok?!

Love,

Elizabeth

P.S. I found this site by googling you.

Dearest Ah-NOOO-pah:

I know you can hear me with my horible british accent saying 'ah-NOOO-pah!' We all want you better and back to your hilarious and silly self! Get healing, start smiling and we'll see you real soon.

You're in our thoughts daily.

Love,

Matt

Anoopa,

We miss you and hope that you are resting well (since you're always on the go here). It's not the same coming home and seeing that empty space everyday, and not scaring each other on the porch, etc.

I wish we had talked more before, but I'll never pass the chance up to hang out and bake cookies or drink wine with you again.

My second period students have a mandatory meditation every morning so I told them about you and asked them to keep you in their thoughts. They ask about you most days, so I'm linking our classroom site to here, so they can meet you and see what a beautiful person you are.

Love ya,

Beck

Anoopa-

Well, when I first met you, you were young enough that I convinced you and Uttama that I could remove my nose from my face. So I've known you for just a bit.

You had a way of laying back, allowing the moment to come to you, yet you also attacked life in first gear. You never said much, which said a lot.

Today is Sunday. I day I won't soon forget.

To Anita, Danesh and Uttama....I shed tears with you. Please know that the love Bitty and I feel is genuine. You are family.

Love, Drury, Niti, Asha and Veda

Anoopa,

I keep thinking about the bike ride that we have been planning... to explore the ins and outs of Atlanta. I miss you so much and am praying for you to regain your strength. You are such a strong woman with an incredible spirit that I admire and love. You are an inspiration. I am thinking about you constantly and sending you powerful love.

Love,

Em

My Dearest Anoopa,

I want to say that no mother can love her child as much as I love you. But that would be wrong. At times you are more mature than me and Dad, and that is one of the most beautiful aspects of your being. You are the voice of reason in the heated debates, and the daily ruckus in our household. Your energetic personality, your aspirations to work at WHO and help advance the cause of health in the poor and especially women and children.... I have been just called by Dr. Melton..so, I will finish this later. Love and kisses

Mom

First, many thanks to Amy and Dylan for setting up this webpage - this is amazing.

I just wanted to quickly share a quote that I saw at church today, where the main message was Healing - Anoopa likes uplifting quotes and I think this one is fitting.

"This life, therefore, is not godliness but the process of becoming godly, not health, but getting well, not being, but becoming, not rest but exercise. We are not now what we shall be, but we are on the way. The process is not yet finished, but it is actively going on. At present, everything does not gleam and sparkle, but everything is being cleansed." -Martin Luther

Noopita-

Whenever I was near you, I could always feel your gentle Angel's wing surrounding all those around you with the love and joy that radiated from your being. You are one of God's most beautiful and inspiring Angels, and all of us who know you realize how blessed we are. Anoopa, you will never stop inspiring me to become a better person, one worthy of your incredible friendship, teaching me to stop and enjoy the most important things in life- family, friends, and health- and challenging me to change this world with the tremendous love you felt for it. You will always be in my heart and in my prayers.

Love you always, Marie

Noops,

I loved to watch you grow during our time together as hallmates, blockmates, dancemates, travelmates. Freshman year I was intimidated by your confidence. Senior year was inspired by it.

It's been cold here still in Minnesota. For the past week or so when I want to quit, I let your spirit push behind me as a run (you'd be proud of my marathon plan! even though it doesn't include african dance... i went to this dance performance friday--there were elements but no good drumming--you wouldn't have liked it much either i suspect) and then my feet feel lighter. Outside, I feel the flurries of snow still falling in Minnesota in March and I think of them as your "besitos" captured in ice and surrounding me.

The frozen besitos land and then fade, like you have--too soon.

But I know that unlike the snow, you will remain with me in every season.

Love,

"Lizard!" (just like you would say it)

Hey Anoopa,

I read about you on Robert's blog.

You are in mine and my family's prayers.

Hey

Hope you get well, I will keep you in my prayers

Although i dont know Anoopa and just came across the sad state that Anoopa is in through Robert Scoble's blog, i would still pray to God that she gets better. No matter how bad her present condition might be, there is always HOPE...something on which our entire planet has been suviving for aeons.

I'm really sorry about how grumpy I was last Thanksgiving. I was just looking at pictures of it, me gloomy, you cheerful. I wish I could be more like you. I send you my thoughts and prayers.

Love,

Veda

Get well soon. Please.

Anoopa-

My fiancee and I are sending prayers to you and your family. Your warmth and spirit was evidenced every point of every game I ever saw you play at Duke.

Ned

I am praying for you. Get well soon.

Some pictures of Anoopa last Thanksgiving:

http://www.druryarmistead.com/Anoopa1.jpg

http://www.druryarmistead.com/Anoopa2.jpg

http://www.druryarmistead.com/Anoopa3.jpg

http://www.druryarmistead.com/Anoopa4.jpg

http://www.druryarmistead.com/anoopa5.jpg

Anoopa - I only knew you through P.WILD, but I remember you vividly. Your beauty, energy, and enthusiasm for life will stay with me always. My prayers are with you and your family and friends.

There are those of us who wish to do good, and those who do infinite good by the simple act of being. You, Noops, are absolutely the latter. I can't count the number of times your spirit and your words have suppored me when I've been tired or afraid. You are the most beautiful paradox-- perpetual motion and absolute serenity.

Words are flat and insufficient to tell you how how much I love you. While I feel a breath-stealing sense of personal loss as you rest, I cry for all those who never had the chance to know you. Somehow, they will. The world will never, ever stop needing Anoopa.

I would give anything and everything to be sitting cross-legged on the floor of our Edens home, back resting against the leaning loft, watching Dawson's Creek and pondering the actual ingredients of a Cantina burrito with you. You, my friend, are magic, and I miss you with everything I've got.

I love you,

Randita

I feel as though I carry a piece of your spirit with me, not from our personal interactions, but from listening to the wonderful stories that Lauren Vose has shared with me - memories of dancing with you at Duke and of travelling with you in Ghana, tales of your travels around the world and most importantly, of your infectious spirit and your dedication to humanity. After hearing these stories and reading your friend Randita's compliment that "you are the most beautiful paradox-- perpetual motion and absolute serenity", I continue to imagine Anoopa Sharma as a woman whose energy and love has no limits, and as a woman who knows how to enjoy peace and simplicity.

I am 10,000 miles away in Zambia and wish I could be In Birmingham to support you, your friends and family. However, I am with you in spirit and my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Those who know and love you, and even those who only know OF you, are sending their love and support from all over the world.

All I can say is that we're all praying for her. Please don't lose hope and be strong. Love you all. USAID/West Bank & Gaza Mission

a touching blog.

my best wishes.

Dear Dennis,

Just learned from your office of your daughter, Anoopa's, accident. I send you my warmest heartfelt wishes for her wellbeing and hopes and prayers for her recovery.

Warmly,

Dorothy Harman

Peres Center for Peace

Dear Anita and Dennis, Uttama and Anoopa,

Mike and I and Erik are thinking of all of you in this very difficult time for you. We remember La Lima, Honduras and the fun times we had together. Please know that we're praying for all of you.

Love,

Cindy

We only knew you for a short time but we will never forget your ever-smiling face, abundant kindness, and perpetually positive outlook. We'll miss you...

Anoopa, Uttama, Dennis & Anita,

My heart is with you.

Much love,

Eleanor

Dear friends and family of Anoopa,

I did not know Anoopa personally (although I feel I should have, since I play Ultimate Frisbee, grew up in DC, and currently live in Atlanta and also attend the Rollins School of public health), but I have some close friends who knew her well from Duke. I just want to let you all know that I hold all of you in my heart, wish you peace and love in this time of suffering and sorrow. I will be making dedications and offerings in her honor and yours at my Buddhist Center tonight. May we all find freedom from our suffering.

With much love, Bex

Anoopa,

You are truly amazing. I feel so blessed to know you and your family. I send you much love, energy and best wishes from Chicago along with my parent's thoughts and prayers. I love you very much and feel so inspired by you through the pictures and stories of your activities since I last connected with you. I hope and pray to connect with you again soon.

All my love,

Cecilia

I too feel incredibly fortunate to have known Anoopa. What amazes me most about her is that she is so many things, and expresses so many wonderful aspects all bundled together in such a rare way. At one moment she is flying through the air in some series of African dance movements, a smile that could light up the darkest night sky. The next moment, her face is intensely serious as she brings up with me some deep philosophical question or points out some subtle truth about the way the world works.

Anoopa, I'll never forget you or all the conversations we had, both serious and silly.

Chuck

Goodbye Anoopa :(

i am so sorry.

anoopa, i only met you on and off, when you were with your sister. but you are missed.

Anoopa,

I have such wonderful memories of you from our BUILD crew during your freshman year. You were quiet at first, but quickly I saw you as reflective, honest, sparkling and so warm. Late one night at the Duke bus stop, in front of the Chapel, you told us a story. The story was about a miller, or a miner, or someone of a humble profession, who wanted to be more. He was granted his wishes, until finally he was king. But after this, he wished he could be what he started as, because he had been happy as who he was before.

You told this story so beautifully; I remember we made you tell us again! I've forgotten the details, but the meaning has always stayed with me. And it is this sentiment of vitality and looking forward without malice, or regret, that strikes me so much about you, and that you shared with us -- and continue to share. I found myself reading your Elon columns and sending them to friends today, especially the one on "feeling the spirit."

Anoopa, thank you, and well miss you. I hope you're dancing somewhere. Love, Erica

"And even in our sleep, pain which cannot forget falls drop by drop upon the heart until, in our own despair, against our will, wisdom comes to us through the awful grace of God."

-- Aeschylus, spoken by Robert F. Kennedy

To Dennis, Anita and Uttama-- She seemed like the daughter we never had. She brightened our day when she visited. The world was her playground, but she took its problems very seriously. There was always a mirthful gleam in her eye, as if she was in on a cosmic secret. Maybe she was.

We will miss her.

-- John and Pat Morrison

I did not know Anoopa, but I wish I had. My thoughts and best wishes are with you all.

Anoopa, I miss you. You were (are) my wonderful new friend, and I had looked forward to the years ahead. I won't forget you, and am glad for the blessing of the time that we had.

All my love,

Katie

When I think of Anoopa I see smiles, grace, confidence, poise, (fantastic ultimate frisbee skills) and a wise intelligence. She was a model and an inspiration to all of us there who were learning to live life to the fullest. I think that she was representative of a very special group of people at Duke who were true, committed, creative, generous and kind. She was all those things and more, and she will be truly missed. I feel blessed that I was able to share four years in the same community as her, and I know that the number of people who have been impacted by her spirit is enormous. All my love, Claire.

Anoopa - what a treat to have known your amazingly strong and beautiful soul. I sit in shock and saddness, you never expect something like this. I am amazed as always; With the same grace that you danced, smiled and lived life you exited, so many gifts you gave even in your final moments. Anita, Dennis, and Uttama, my heart goes out to you, I cannot imagine how difficult it must be to lose such an amazing part of your family.

All my love - Lucy.

I am a friend and classmate of Anoopa's sister, Uttama. I met Anoopa once when she visited a couple of years ago. I know that if she was anything like Uttama, she was a caring, vibrant and thoughtful person. I am so sorry for your loss and we are here and praying for you.

Dear Dinesh, Anita, and Uttama,

I and my family convey our deepest sympathy at the loss of precious Anoopa. It seems as if it was yesterday when Anoopa was born and we had brought her home from the hospital. I didn't get to know her after she moved from Florida and grew up to be such a beautiful and strong spirited woman. It is hard to comprehend why she was taken away from us like this. We can only pray for peace and freedom for her soul from this world to the world of angels, just like her.

In this tragic moment of your loss words are not enough to express our sorrow. We just want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

May Anoopa's soul rest in peace.

Anita be strong and spirited just as Anoopa would have liked you to be.

With love,

H.K., Kamla, and the whole family

Reading the comments above, I remember sharing the quote "If we could see the miracle of a single flower closely, our whole life would change" with you one afternoon. I believe with ALL OF MY HEART that you are a miracle in my life and that seeing you, being with you, and knowing you has changed my life forever. Your confidence in me throughout the years has been a pillar that I always have taken strength in. Your sincere quest to understand, celebrate and revel in the world around you will be eternal. You will always mean so much to me and will be a part of my life forever. There is no other like you. Until we meet again. Always....Danny

Dear Anita, Dennis and Uttama,

We watched Anoopa grow from a beautiful girl into a beautiful and intelligent young woman. It was a joy to know her for that time. She seemed like a rare flower, fragile and yet strong at the same time. It is wonderful that you are able to share her with many other people at this time and that she will be able to give life and hope to many. Our prayers are with your family at this time of sorrow. We can only imagine the grief you are feeling at this enormous loss and our hearts go out to you. God bless you and Anoopa. Love, Barbara and Bob Yablonski

noops,

your lifelong quest for love, life, and god has only begun... another "chapter one" perhaps? I'm waiting for you to tell me what you see.

much love, always

Neil

I only knew Anoopa for a year but in that short time I realized she was one of the most sincere, beautiful people at Duke. I remember the time I told her I was a history major and she replied with a quite rare "Cool, tell me about American History." Somewhat shocked I asked her what exactly about American history did she want to know? "Everything," was her answer, "And start from beginning." If anyone else made this request you would think they were being sarcastic but with Anoopa you knew she was acting upon her unquenchable thirst for knowledge and understanding. We spoke for quite a while and, thinking back on it now, I wish I had more such exchanges as an undergrad. I am sure this is just one of thousands of stories about how Anoopa brightened up someone's life and I still can't believe that this light has left us. I especially give my condolences to those who knew her better than me and to those who unfortunately never got to know her at all.

- Matt

Matt

Very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

Mary

Desde Bogot, Colombia, donde recordamos cariosamente a Anita y Dennis, reciban nuestros mas sinceras condolencias por la muerte de Anoopa.

Marcela y Daniel Montas

I did not meet Anoopa, but looking at the photo's and reading all the comments I can see that she was (is) a wonderful spirited person! My thought are with you in this very sad time. Be strong and God bless.

Lyndall

I had the privilege of sharing a flat with Anoopa for something like 9 months while she was living in London over a year ago now. Anoopa, Debbie, Maya and myself had a wonderful time, and she was a fantastic flatmate.

She was a wonderful, kind, sensitive, beautiful person and I am proud to call her my friend.

She will be sorely missed.

My thoughts are with everyone that knew her, and especially her family.

Sending you my love from overseas.

Jack

I wanted to add this to the list of uplifting quotes that I think Anoopa would have liked. I think we could all use the inspiration now.

"One thing alone I charge you. As you live, believe in Life! Always human beings will live and progress to greater, broader and fuller life. The only possible death is to lose belief in this truth simply because the great end comes slowly, because time is long."

W. E. B. DuBois final statement, 1963

Anita, Dennis and Uttama - My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Anoopa - I am honored to have known you while we were younger. You are an amazing person and touched my life in so many ways. I only wish that we would have kept in touch as we grew older so that I would have been able to seen what an amazing woman you became. You will be missed!

Mary Oliver says this:

"To live in this world you must be able to do three things: to love what is mortal; to hold it against your bones knowing your own life depends on it; and, when the time comes to let it go, to let it go."

Anoopa - your love, kindness and grace were a gift to many people. I feel so fortunate I was able to see you again in New York just a couple of months ago.

My thoughts are with you and your family. I wish you a peaceful rest, and for your family, love and strength.

I am so sorry for your loss and i will keep Anoop, her family and friend in my prayers.

Dear Anoopa:

This untimely tragedy is impossible to understand or explain. You are a woman whose endless passion, spirit, energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm have inspired so many people. You have so much to give and you have the capacity to enrich the world in so many ways; I have no doubt that you will continue spreading your love, your joy, your passion, and your energy.

Thank you for your gifts.

You will be missed but will be with us here always.

Love,

Carolyn

Anoopa worked with me at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine for about a year. She was a valued colleague and made many friends. We are much saddened by this news....

One with such gifts

deserved more time upon the stage

Paul

Anoopa,

May your soul rest in peace. Amen.

Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord, Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears attend to the voice of my supplication.

If you, O Lord, should mark our guilt, Lord, who could survive? But there is forgiveness in you, and we revere you for it.

I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than watch-men for the morning.

O Israel, hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with Him is plenteous redemption. And He will redeem Israel from all iniquities.

Eternal rest grant unto Anoopa, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

O Lord, hear my prayer. And let my cry come to you.

O God, creator and redeemer of all the faithful, grant to the souls of your departed servants the forgiveness of all their sins.

Through my prayer, may they obtain the pardon they have always desired. Amen

-Psalm 130 (129)

Anoopa,

This tragedy is so hard to comprehend. Your family and friends are in my prayers and thoughts.

Your loving, caring, and independent spirit has always inspired me, and it will continue to do so. The way you lived your life encourages me to live in the moment and take advantage of every opportunity.

I remember the story that Erica has mentioned. During almost every crew meal we would have together, we would always make you tell it to us again! Hopefully between us we will be able to piece it together... but the meaning and memory remains with me, as you do.

All my love,

Jen

I am so sorry to hear of this tragedy. I wish the family all the best as you mourn this loss, and I know that if anyone could have fought thru this, it would have been Anoopa. She was a strong woman working for the good of humanity, and I respected and admired her alot.

You will be truly missed by all, whose lives you have touched so deeply and unknowingly. Your quiet way always carried a presence, and continues to do so. Ill always remember the laughs that we shared, bringing a smile to my face for being so fortunate to enjoy those times with you.

To Uttama and Family, my love and prayers are with you all

Love, Steve

Hey Snoops

You and I had some fun times didn't we, i will miss your energy and enthusiasm for life, but most of all - i will miss you.

Vanessa and I will always love you.

Our thoughts are with your family.

James xx

Dear Dennis, Anita, and Uttama,

It was with great sadness that we read Uttama's notes of the last few days. Anoopa sounded like the daughter Mike and I would have loved to have had. We are so, so sorry that this inexplicable tragedy happened, to such a young life so full of promise, so caring of humanity. May the Lord be with you.

Mike, Cindy, and Erik Bertelsen

Anoopa,

I'm really going to miss your pleasant smile, warm hugs and beautiful spirit. You presence and energy will be missed at Rollins. May your soul find peace.

The Sharma family, I wish you peace during these hard times. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

love, gargi

Dear Anoopa

I wrote a quote in a farewell card to you when you left our flat in London (you, me, James, Maya and Jack). It said 'you are at your most radiant when you are carrying out your soul's mission on this earth'. The funny thing is as I wrote it I remember thinking that this is the special woman you are already.

Anoopa I will never forget you and I know you came into all our lives for a reason and I understand that you now have had to leave.

My thoughts are with your family.

love forever

Debbie

Dear Anoopah;

As a friend and a colleague of your dad, I have known you all along. We always spoke about your smarts and your great heart, so giving and your intelligence so inspiring. I wish you a peaceful after life in your new journey. We mourn your personal departure as such away from among your beloved family, your friends and us the rest of the the mortals. Be well in your new domain and remember that thanks to your generosity, you have given life to many other and we shall still have you as a living beautiful person among us. Peace. With love from Jerusalem....

Anoopa was a wonderful person to have known and be friends with when we were growing up Fairfax. Even though life took us down different paths and I have not seen her in many years, I will always remember our time spent together. She will be missed by so many. Anoopa, my prayers are with you.

Uttama, Anita and Dennis My deepest sympathies on the loss that you have suffered, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Dear Anoopa and Family, we have all been lucky to have been touched by Anoopa in some way. She's one of the most sincere people I meet at Duke. I wish I had known her better, but the memories we had shared were wonderful. I was also blessed as a freshman to have had Uttama take me under her wing at our '99 P-Wild trip. Knowing both Anoopa and Uttama, I know how wonderful of a family the Sharma's are. I will keep Anoopa and the family in my prayers.

love,

Nerlyne

Anoopa, I only know your mother but through her I came to know about you. I pray that your spirit is at peace and that you will be able to comfort your family in their time of need. Your body may no longer be present but your soul lives forever....you already know this... Be free!

To the family of Anoopa, the USAID/Colombia mission expresses their deepest condolences at the loss of your daughter. I myself had the chance to meet Annopa with her Father Dennis when they passed through New Delhi in June 2004 and found a beautiful, engaging young lady ready to bring new hope to the world in whatever she chose to do. A bright light has passed from this world to the next. Our sympathy at your loss is with all of you at this difficult time.

Hi Noops!

I remember your spastically dancing, always smiling, super intelligent, magnificent little self from our SKS days. I always used to call you "little one" and you hated it but I thought it was so cute. Then one day you turned around and called me "Big One," and well, that was the end of that! I loved your spunky attitude and your crazy African dancing before/after/and during SKS meetings. I remember I failed one of my challenges and the only reason I felt bad about it is because Chuck told me that I let you down. You are the kind of person I never wanted to let down. You made me step up to the plate and I appreciate it more than you know. Keep dancing and keep smiling! I love you and we will meet again. --Kavita

Tears are in my eyes reading the comments of so many of Anoopa's friends here. This page is a testament to the fact that wonderful, caring people naturally gravitated to Anoopa throughout her life. My heart is with both the dear old friends and the strangers that I'm meeting through this page.

I'm a lucky guy for having become Anoopa's friend over the last several years. She was already a woman of such great stature at such a young age, it was honestly intimidating when I first met her. I feel hollow knowing that this world won't see the heights she would have climbed to, but her life now seems like a challenge to me to improve mine. I hope everyone takes a small piece of the love and ambition and happiness that we were graced with in the time she was here, and spreads it in their own part of the world. I'm sure she would smile at the thought.

Take care,

Paul

Anoopa,

You are such a loved soul. I can see you dancing in my class--such a look of disbelief on your face, as if to say "Is this right?" and me frantically shaking my head, "Yes, Anoopa YES!!! That's it!" and your smile was more brilliant and more powerful than the drums to which we danced.

Anoopa, I thank God, Uttama, your parents and most of all you, for crossing my path and reminding me of how one soul--just one beautiful soul, can touch so deeply.

I know how much you love the drums so I'll be waiting for you.

Peace and love,

Ava

Dear Anita , Dineshji and uttama

It is with unimaginable sadness and grief that I find myself typing here in memory of your beautiful, strong and intelligent daughter. I will talk to you when I am able to compose myself. I grieve constantly and it is only when I am at work that my mind is on other things. Each night i pray that God may rest her soul in peace and give you all the strength and courage to cope with this loss. I am taking home her beautiful smiling pictures as that is how we will always remember her. I feel so privileged that i had the opportunity to meet her just last year.

Love

Yojana, Vikram, Ellora and Amiti.

A great light in the world has been extinguished. You will be missed greatly. Even in high school your wonderful spirit and loving nature was evident.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God bless all of you.

Love,

David

Anoopa "NOOPS"

How I smile thinking of you...your cute little self dancing up and down the Ark floor with your ponytail just swinging. How you would wait for the right moment to jump into the bantaba at the end of class and show that rhythm, respect, love, and passion cross all cultural barriers. I loved yelling "yeah Noops!"

You always got the smallest costume and of course, most times, it was too big!

The world has lost a beautiful vibrant woman, but I know heaven has gained a

spunky angel! Til we meet again, that will be my source of strength. I am honored to have known you and honored to have shared the love of African dance with you.

xoxo Deanna

Dennis: I got back to the office from Zamorano this morning and found the entire mission in mourning. Please know that all of us at USAID/Honduras feel your loss, and that our thoughts are with you and your family.

Take care,

Kelly

Anoopa...

I remember the first day of Project Build freshman year when we met. I was terrified and homesick...you were so calm and comforting. The first night when Erica and Jaime asked if anyone wanted to do their interview first, you volunteered. I spent my first night at Duke sitting on blankets by the Duke bus stop, under the Chapel and the stars listening to you tell us your life story. I can't think of a better way to have started off college than having you tell stories all night.

I can't comprehend the tragedy of what has happened...but I find myself checking this website over and over to read everyone's comments. It is truly incredible how many people you touched so deeply in your short time here...and it is fitting how many people's lives you have effected and helped in your passing. You will be greatly missed.

Love, Kate

Dear Denis and family,

Ive heard the sad news about the passing away of your beloved Anoopa - Im thinking of you all and wishing you hope in the midst of sorrow and comfort in the midst of pain ...

Those who bloom in the heart of others never fade away

May you find comfort and strength, may the warm memories of your dear one soothe you in this difficult time and during these difficult moments and help you all be at peace.

My prayers are with you.

With heartfelt sympathy,

Sincerely,

Sawsan Baghdadi

USAID/WBG

Our thoughts and prayers atre with you and your family.

God bless you all.

USAID W&G Motorpool

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

God bless you all.

USAID WB&G Motorpool

Dear Denis and family,

With Great sorrow we received the news of Anoopa pass away. Our hearts and minds are with you and the family, and God bless her Soul.

Said Abu Hijleh

DAI-PAL

Anoopa,

You are a beautiful soul that is now shining above us all, Keep smiling girl!!! You are greatly missed. I pray that your family finds comfort and peace knowing what a difference you have made in the lives of many.

Love ya,

Nia

We are associates of Spencer Nayan Joshi. We pray for eternal peace for Anoopa. Sincerely, -Bob Lockwood

Dear Dennis and Family,

My prayers are with you at this difficult moment. May God bless her soul and give you the strength, while her memory surrounds you with endless love.

USAID

Hi Anoopa,

I reached this website linked thru technology blogs. I am touched by your life and amazing things you have done and accomplished in a very short time. With your passion for doing good and skills in Medicine/Computer Science, mankind lost a great deal with your early loss. However, you have already helped and inspired many.

Shine Bright for all of us !

Ajay

Anoopa,

I have great respect for your father who is my colleague at USAID, and I am so sorry that your family has to suffer this terrible loss. My wife and I will remember you in our prayers.

May you rest in peace,

Dan Runde

What a beautiful woman who I wish I had the honor of meeting! Though I did not know Anoopa I am touched by her story, and I only hope that I can lead a life half as rewarding as the life she led. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends, you are blessed with her grace forever.

Lovingly,

Christiana Johnson

Oglethorpe University

Hi,

Myself and my family just relocated here from Charleston,S.C. and saw the topic on the news channel,We would like to send our prayers and thoughts to the family of Annopa.

I remember Anoopa in our ecology lab at Duke, engaged and laughing as we enthusiastically counted seedlings in a roomful of disinterested students who did not know the fun they were missing. I remember Anoopa at PWILD meetings in the GA down under, conveying the spirit of an entire organization through her smile, and energy, and openness. And I remember seeing Anoopa briefly in DC last year, and afterwards wondering aloud to friends how some people can shine so brightly, undertake such extraordinary endeavors, live so fully.

I have lost beautiful people from my life this past year, but have also begun to learn that the intrinsic greatness of those people can never be truly lost to those who knew them best. Uttama, and Anoopas parents I send my sincere love and hope with time you feel that peace.

Anoopa, Anoopa, Anoopa...

I find myself repeating your name over and over again to myself because I am still in shock by your sudden departure from our lives. You are a fantastic friend and one of the most amazing people I have ever known. I will cherish the time we had together, particularly our time in Bangladesh. You made my experience better than I could have imagined, and it would not have been the same without you. Your spirit and enthusiam got me out of the guest house and onto the streets of Dhaka, a scary adventure for someone who had never been outside of North America before! By the time you were finished helping me get my international traveling feet beneath me, I was able to wander the streets of Kathmandu and travel in India by myself, and I thank you for that. I also thank you for getting me to Nepal and India, and for making me a part of your family in Delhi for a few days before we parted ways.

I am also grateful for the week that you stayed with me when you got to Atlanta. After classes started, we were both so busy that we did not get to see each other nearly enough.

I will always remember you and think upon our times together fondly. I miss you already...

To Anoopa's family, my thoughts are with you now and always. The world has lost a shining star and will mourn it for a long time to come.

With love,

Erin

Dear Sharma's,

It is sad to know about Anoopa. Having seen her brief profile on Fox newscast at 10.00PM, it seems she was different character and dedicated to make others more comfortable.

By donating her organs, her soul and presence is left in this world. She has moved on to play bigger role elsewhere.

May her soul rest in peace and God provide you all enough strength to withstand this big loss.

Deepak Khajouria & Shivani Sharma

This is another piece of Anoopa's writing that she emailed to me while in London. I'm not sure if it was a final draft as she was asking me if she made sense of how the two situations/conversations come together in her mind. I thought I would share it here.

All Things In Moderation

After classes ended during our senior year at Duke, Chuck and I went

for a long walk in Umstead Park. At one point in the afternoon he

asked me "What was the most important thing you learned in college?" I

considered the laws of electromagnetism of course, but eventually

settled on the obvious choice for me, the lesson I had been learning

for many many years, which was accelerated and solidified during my

time at Duke and my involvement with the Self Knowledge Symposium.

"My faults." Thanks, SKS.

I am thrilled to have a friend like Chuck, to ask me these important

questions and to be a sounding board for my responses. During my last

year at Duke and since leaving, I have become acutely aware of the

flaws within me: laziness, vanity, dependency, insecurity, and a large

helping of ego. And I am beginning to find that in addition to the

obvious benefits, this awareness of one?s own weakness can have

detrimental effects. Ignorance is one extreme on the scale of self-

knowledge. The other extreme is an keen awareness of one's flaws which

can lead to paralysing fear.

In April I spent five days in Paris with Corentin, a French actor I

met during a 10-day Vipassana meditation course. One day we sat in a

cafe and discussed acting techniques. He told me about "Inside-Out?"

attempting to generate an emotion within, then projecting it outwards

for the scene required. I had more trouble understanding how one could

act using an "Outside-In" technique. Corentin explained, "Next time

you are walking home at night, in the dark, trying running instead.

And then periodically, look over your shoulder as you run, to make

sure nobody is running after you. You will get scared." I understood

immediately, as I have experienced this myself. This technique works

well for actors; emotion can be generated simply by actions. However,

the example itself provides support for my argument: awareness beyond

the necessary can lead to fear.

So feigned awareness of risk causes fear. Can you imagine then how

much fear is generated by the actual knowledge of one's weaknesses?

Don't get me wrong, I am enormously grateful for the knowledge I

gained through my participation in SKS. Perhaps a lesson on how to

best use this knowledge would have been helpful. Because at the

moment, being familiar with my true motivations and shortcomings, I

find myself watching my words, doubting my decisions, occasionally

hesitating even to speak, and being painfully aware of my delivery

when I do!

This is too much. Surely I have gorged myself on self-knowledge. How

to fix the problem? Perhaps we should realize that the bridge from

self-knowledge to the application of self-knowledge is one that takes

many frustrating years to cross. That by possessing even a morsel of

humility and self-awareness, we are doing well in life and are in a

good place to improve ourselves, if we so desire. That the next step

on the path is self-acceptance. And by all means, we should never

forget to take all things in moderation.

I don't even know who you are and I got all teared up as I heard your story on the news tonight. So many people have prayed for you and your family that I know you and them can feel those prayers because of the love and strength behind them. I will pray for your family to be comforted Anoopa. I know you are in a place where you have only to grow and become even more amazing (if that's possible) You are now with our father in heaven and soon we'll see you again. I can't wait to meet you some day and see for myself what a wonderful person you truly are. Good luck up there!

Dear Anoopa and her family,

I didn't know Anoopa while i was at Duke. I wish I had, although I know that this would have been extremely painful in light of the fact that she is an extraordinary person. I am just writing to state that Anoopa is an inspiring individual and the love and hope she herself seemed to possess and motivate in others is a lesson to us all. I feel that I have learned and can relate to some of the lessons and experiences she mentions in her columns, while at the same time learning a great deal more from her. Life is a gift so make the most of it today. Don't wait until tomorrow.

Please revel in her spirit.

Dennis and Family,

I have been touched deeply by the words shared by others on the very full life of your beautiful Anoopa. This young person made a huge impact on others. Please find solace where you can and know that she continues to make a dent in humanity. It is clear that you and Anita raised an earth mover, a person who changes lives. You must be proud. As she was loved by so many, so you are loved.

My very deepest condolences for your pain. But know that this child of the universe, Anoopa, knows no earthly bounds.

My warmest thoughts to you at this time,

Bill Martin

USAID/New Delhi

(And IDI-mate from 1987)

I once read that God, in His infinite mercy, calls us back to Him once we've fulfilled our calling in life, once we've achieved what it is that we were sent to this Earth to do. It follows that those who return to Him so young were so much wiser and more adept at doing God's work than the rest of us.

Anoopa seems to have embodied this. She was in my freshman Russian literature seminar at Duke and she always struck me as incredibly luminous and loving and intelligent. If anyone was in tune with the meaning of life, it was her.

My deepest thoughts and prayers go out to Anoopa, her family and her friends.

found out about this through a friend, just wanted to offer my prayers as well. read some of Anoopa's pieces, as a fellow writer i will say they were excellent and i am glad this earth was blessed with her talent for as long as it was. i read that many lives were touched and if just one person in this world felt loved whenthey saw her walk into a room and smile, then she has changed this world for the better.

Rest in Peace Anoopa

I first met Anoopa when I was a sophomore in high school, in chemistry class. I think she was often amused at the humorous chidings that were sent my way. We had a lot of fun and she was a always a wonderful friend. I am deeply saddened that I will never see her again.

Anoopa you will be remembered always.

You will never be forgotten.

I seen Anoopa's story on Fox 5 News on Saturday at 6pm, and was moved to visit the site and learn more about this wonderful young lady. My heart goes out to the family, and friends; thank you for blessing the world with such a beautiful spirit who gave so free-even during her transition.

Noops!

I remember co-founding Tuesday night Beer and Cookies and listening to Ben Harper in our little hallway in Lancaster... and spring break with PWILD I remember making your birthday brownies junior year, and our dinner discussions on my balcony senior year.... I remember spring break in Puerto Rico - SBPR02, baby! - and kayaking and snorkeling off the little island off the little island off the island....

I remember that Tuesday evening senior year when, after having spent the day watching replays of the Twin Towers collapsing over and over again, we watched the footage one more time, and there was nothing left to say, but I was so grateful to be in the presence of such wonderful friends

And I remember each time I saw you after we had graduated, whether at New Years parties or Salsa dancing or just grabbing coffee, and how you always had some new experience to share, and I was always so inspired by your accomplishments.

After all of these shared experiences, I thought I had known you pretty well. However, seeing postings from, literally, around the world many from people Ive never heard of Im realizing that I had known only one chapter of an amazing life. The postings are a testament to what an incredible person you were. I keep thinking of all the remarkable things you would have done in years to come, and am so sorry that you wont have the chance now but I am also reminded of how you really packed as much living as possible into the 24 years you were given. You truly lived a full and inspiring life, and I am so blessed to have known you.

Many many hearts are breaking right now.

-Thina.

Dearest Anoopa,

In so many ways you will always define the way I think of love - what I know it can be, what I think it should be and what I always hope it is for others. Your presence in my life stirred emotions inside me that I had never before experienced and many of which I haven't experienced since. I had never cried from happiness before you came along. I never really understood nervousness until moments before our first kiss. I had never felt the fear and insecurity that accompanies change until I witnessed our lives transform over time. But, perhaps most importantly, I had never before and have never since experienced a love filled with such hope, optimism, intensity and imagination.

To say that you changed me is such an understatement. Rather, your presence in my life is an essential part of who I am and always will be in the future. I am forever grateful for all that we shared.

You once wrote to me, "Our time, like our love, will last forever."

Yes, I believe it will.

I love you, Anoopa.

What else a person leaves in this world. Memories and Inspirations. Your memories are sweet and your family, friends everybody is going to miss you. Through your actions, during your lifetime and after, You are very inspiring for every body, even for those who have never met you.

na jayate mriyate va kadacin, nayam bhootvaa bhavitaa vaa na bhooyah|

ajo nityah sasvato 'yam puraano na hanyate hanyamane sareere||

(It is never born, nor does it ever die; never it came into existence nor will it cease to be - it will not take rebirth, it is unborn, eternal and permanent; it is the oldest and is never killed when the body is killed.)

You will always be there. But we all will miss you.

I heard of the accident and greatly unfortunate end through conversations with friends from Emory and the email message that James Curran addressed to the RSPH community.

Indeed, this is a terribly sad occasion and the Sharma family will definitely be included in my prayers.

Dear Anoopa,

I remember meeting you at a Duke prospective students gathering in VA, and you hardly said a word. Little did I know then how accomplished and confident you really were.

I will always remember being in Brown Hall with you and taking the PWILD house course with you freshman year. But I will especially remember tenting with you: "Duke basketball, it's in-tents." You were always laughing and smiling and enthusiastic.

Even though everything you did at Duke impressed me, I had no idea how much you had accomplished since graduation. The path you had set out on is truly inspiring to me.

I will miss you.

love,

Katie

Noops,

Your optimism, courage, and wisdom are the stuff of legend. Despite your gifts, you were never conceited, always self-aware. You commanded life in a way that many of us can only talk about in the abstract. I often return to our conversation in north London, where you told me, all smile and gleaming eyes, of the whirlwind travels you planned in your year off.

I'm sure that your journey has only just begun.

Godspeed, Pavan

PS. I'm very sorry I killed your fish.

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Sharma and family,

I'm very much moved by this sad news. I knew Anoopa for a short period while she was visiting the ICDDR,B: Centre for Health and Population Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh on a research supervised by Dr. Caryn Bern of CDC, Atlanta. I arranged her accommodation in Dhaka at the ICDDR,B guesthouse. Anoopa was a bright young woman. I can remember her ever-smiling face. Sharma's-- please accept my deepest condolences. I pray for the departed soul for peace and salvation. May God give you all enough strength to bear this loss!

Best regards,

Milton Quiah

ICDDR,B: Centre for Health and Population Research

Though I didn't know Anoopa & her family personally, I was aware of the ordeal they went through during the past few days...

Deepest condolences to the Sharma family..May Anoopa's soul rest in peace. Visiting this web page & knowing more about Anoopa & her life today has changed my perspective towards life forever..

Best Regards,

Pooja

Anoopa,

Got to know about you thru my very close friend, Spencer Joshi. I then realized why every one liked and loved you so much..... Eevery one ...... including the GOD wanted your company ...... in the race to achieve that , the GOD won.....and we all, including your family lost! .... a loss that can never be replaced !! My deepest condolences to Sharma's and all those who just can't take this cruelty of destiny.

Nick Godbole

Though I went to Duke and graduated in 2002 as well, I did not know Anoopa well while I was a student there. I truly wish I had.

From reading about her over the past few days, I'm able to get a sense of how she touched this world and those living within it. Anoopa was certainly a remarkable person, and a prime example of how to live life well, selflessly and fruitfully. People young and old stand to learn a great deal from her example.

My prayers and thoughts are with Anoopa's family and friends.

Anoopa - I never met you... but I know the people who love you and are grieving at your untimely departure. Their shock and tears show me just how special a person you were. My heart breaks at their sorrow. I know you would want them to move on ... to let you go. May you be at peace whereever you are dear Anoopa.

I never met you. I never knew you. But...I wish I had.

You left TJ in 1998; I arrived at TJ in 1999. That's about all we have in common, Anoopa. Still, I pay my respects to you. You (and your friends) made Jefferson the wonderful place that it was (and still is, to a degree).

For your life, I will be eternally grateful.

In death, there is life. In every end there is a new beginning. Anoopa, you will live on in everyone whose life you have impacted.

Thank you for being you. Thank you for making TJ what it is.

Victor S. Andrei

TJHSST-2003

UVA SEAS-2007

We would like to offer our condolences to Anoopa. May her soul rest in peace. Our prayers for her soul.

we arefamily friends of Mr. Nayan Joshi from whom we heard about the terrible tragedy.

i really dont know what to say other than anoopa was a wonderful girl to be around. i havnt talked to her in seven ( or so ) years, but i knew that she would turn out to be the remarkable young woman she was.

mr. and mrs. sharma and uti, my love and truly heartfelt sorrow goes out to you.

I only knew Anoopa through a class at Duke, but I hope that she's found a better place and that her family is at peace.

Anoopa, We never met you & in fact just heard about this terrible news from our common nephew Vineet & now looking at all your pictures & reading the messages, we can say that you were an angel & we really missed meeting you in this life. We are sure that you will be shinning like a star in the heavan as well. My wife & i will remember you in our prayers.....Sudhir & Punam!

Anoopa,

I never met you formally, but i am sure we passed by one another many times at TJ, where you were two years my senior. A strong and bright light can never be extinguished. Even in your passing, your story has inspired and roused me from a time of listlessness, unhealthy indulgence, and depression. Reading even just a fraction of the postings here has indescribably moved and inspired me. You are so greatly loved and admired, and you seem to have always strived to live life to the fullest. I leave this site inspired by your beautiful life and memory, and know that I am not alone in this sentiment. I was inspired by one of the messages above which described your great gift for living well, and thought to share this quote. I have always found it to be profoundly wise, but it seems as though you naturally knew this wisdom all along:

"What does the worker gain from his toil?

I have seen the burden God has laid on men.

He has made everything beautiful in its time.

He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.

I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil-this is the gift of God. " Ecclesiates 3: 9-13

You and yours are in my thoughts and prayers

Miki

Just a note from one of Uttama's classmates at med school. I remember meeting Anoopa during her visit to Charlottesville in 2002. I feel very fortunate to have met her and wished I had had the opportunity to get to know her. I remember being amazed at how intelligent, radiant, and kind both Sharma sisters were. What gifts! You all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

Love,

Shirin

Dearest Anoopa,

I heard about you from Joshi, and also i heard about that incident that day to today, I was just shoked to hear about the bad news,you were there in all our prayers, but today we are really missing you, its hearbreaking news, I came to know that you donated all your organs to different people, and you also donated your kidney to Aparna Joshi,i dont know what to say and how to say about you,you are really a little angel, only one thing i request god to give you peace and may your soul rest in peace.

You are a little angel for all this people.

why god will take away good people on this earth, If really god would have been there i think this incident would have not been happened.

May your soul reast in peace,

you are always in our prayers and thoughts

Love,

Kantesh and Smitha

I hope that all of those who loved Anoopa have found this website as healing as I have. Thank you to the Sharma's for being so generous in sharing so much of their precious daughter and sister's life with us, to Amy and Dylan for creating and keeping up this website, and to all of you who have shared memories and stories about Anoopa, contributed her writings and favorite quotes, and posted pictures. Remembering all the little things about her, like the fact she loved Guiness or had an affinity for keeping fish as pets, as well knowing all her major accomplishments, keeps her Alive and a constant in my thoughts and in my life. So please, keep posting the wonderful stories about the questions Anoopa use to ask, the things she use to love, the everyday idioscrycasies that made her our beautiful Anoopa.

Hello Friend,

Just wanted to let you know what a great Personality you were in thinking about others and giving life to others. Your Laughter, Organs and your thought will live in People's bodies and will long last in their Memories. May GOD rest you in peace.

Love, Another friend.

Although I do not know you earlier, when I happen to go through the letter of Mr. Spencer Josh who described about you and the incidents happened, I really feel very sad and my heartfelt condolences that the greatest soul of Anupa may rest in peace.

I only heard of Anoopa's passing today, and even though I met her only once, it was apparent that she lived her life to the fullest. It was uplifting to hear that her organs would give life to others. I give my best wishes and condolences to her family and friends.

Dear Mr and Mrs Sharma and Uttama

What has happened to Anoopa has touched me deeply. Some solace may be that she lived so fully while she lived. Since I have never lost anyone so close, its impossible for me to understand what it feels like. I can only imagine that you over and over again experience the pain of losing her, an inconceivable cruelty for which there are no words.

Yours sincerely / Eva Jorendal

I write now knowing that you may never receive this, but as the urgency is too great. I am compelled to place pen to paper and confess my utmost prayer for you. It is hard to believe a person can live like this, we miss you all the time.

You are simply an angel....a true angel

I came to know about the loss of Anoopa through Mr. Nayan Jhosi. I have gone thorugh this web -site and found that Anoopa is a dynamic person. At a young age she accomplished so much and made a difference in so many people's lives. That is quite an accomplishment!. It saddens me to know that she is no longer there. It also amazed me, to know how the family has generoulsy donated her organs to people who are in need thereby giving new life or new hope to them. She will contnue to live in the hearts of those who came to meet or came in touch with her. My sympathies and prayers to her Mom and Dad and Sister.