Prayers and condolences have been pouring in from friends and fans alike for former Top Chef contestant Chef Fatima Ali. The chef who moved to New York when she was 18 died due to a rare form of bone cancer – Ewing’s Sarcoma.
She was declared free of cancer in early 2018 but the terminal disease had returned a few months later in September. In an emotional and moving op-ed she wrote for Healthyish, she wrote about how she intends to live her life given the limited time she had:
“It’s funny, isn’t it? When we think we have all the time in the world to live, we forget to indulge in the experiences of living. When that choice is yanked away from us, that’s when we scramble to feel. I am desperate to overload my senses in the coming months, making reservations at the world’s best restaurants, reaching out to past lovers and friends, and smothering my family, giving them the time that I so selfishly guarded before.” —- via Healthyish
Her family penned down a heartfelt message after she passed away and it had us in tears.
“We hope that you, too, will listen to her lessons: Live your life as she did—to the fullest. Pursue your passion; spread love and joy; be kind and forgiving; be generous; enjoy every morsel—from humble street food to decadent fine dining; cook for the people you love. Travel the world and seek out adventure. Help others and don’t be afraid to take the road less taken.” —-excerpt from the message
Similarly, fans and friends have been paying their tributes in their own unique ways.
Here is jewellery designer Zohra Rahman’s tribute to Fati’s legacy:
And then there’s the host of Top Chef Padma Lakshmi who shared a close bond with Chef Fatima.
Chef Bruce Kalman remembers her and the times spent with her at Top Chef.
Do you remember the heart to heart she had with Ellen on her show? we sure do. She also posted a throwback picture in her remembrance. How thoughtful!
More than anything, Chef Fati made us think about the limited time we have on this planet and to make the most of our days, for we know things can change any second.
What are your thoughts? Please share with us in comments below.
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