Was he waiting for his brother to come and visit him?

Despite trying his best he couldn’t come as his visa was not granted. The best they could do was to arrange a goodbye via video call. Not in any way a replacement but better than no contact at all. The too common experience of extra suffering caused by geographical distance. The brutal trade-off that all immigrants have to face when they leave home. They move in pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families. The costs of separation might have been considered but do not sink in until tragic events occur. An ocean away can feel like a galaxy away. The unfulfilled wish of being there in a time of need. Reunions depend on the whim of bureaucrats who, at times, are felt to be heartless, lacking in empathy and disconnected from the human race.

What was different in the past week? How did he hold on? Why?

During his dying phase, he had spent more time with his ex-wife and daughters, than he had in many years. One of his biggest regrets was not spending more time with them before he had become unwell. The events preceding the divorce had stuffed it all up. During his final admission, there was always someone staying with him, 24 hours a day. A sensible roster had been set up between his wife and daughters as they held their combined vigil. Was he trying to extend his precious time with his ladies for as long as possible through sheer willpower? Maybe. He was beyond asking. We could never know for sure.

He died last night, in the presence of his family. He had outlived our prognostication by many days.

Rest in Peace Sir.