Throughout those final 13 hours, David D’Souza, Asha’s husband, witnessed the dedication and compassion of the ICU staff. “For the 13 hours that Asha was in the ICU, the team were just awesome,” says David. “The care was so dignified; it’s something I’ll always carry close to my heart.”

In the midst of their grief, the D’Souza family found comfort in the exceptional care Asha received. David, deeply moved by the experience, chose to honour his wife’s memory by giving back to the very hospital that provided such incredible support. In 2018, he established a scholarship fund to support the professional development of North Shore Hospital’s ICU nursing staff. His aim was to ensure that other families could experience the same level of care and expertise that had meant so much to him during his time of loss.

Since the scholarship was set up, the D’Souza family has continued to contribute to the fund, now totalling over $35,000. These donations provide vital funding for ICU nursing staff to attend professional development programs, enhancing their skills and ensure they remain at the forefront of medical care.

David’s generous contributions have already made a profound impact, helping staff members gain invaluable training and advanced knowledge that ultimately benefit future patients. “If Asha leaving us was meant to be our destiny, I couldn’t have asked for more in terms of the effort that went into trying to keep her with us,” David reflects. His ongoing commitment ensures that the legacy of care and compassion will continue to benefit others for years to come.