Remembering Sakshi Verkot: A Legacy of Joy and Impact on the World

Accident – Death – Obituary News : **Title: Sakshi Verkot: A Testimony to the Power of Kindness and Courage**

**Subtitle: Remembering the Impact of a Brave Indian Teenager**

**Published: Thu 14 Dec 2023, 7:09 PM**

Sakshi Verkot, an Indian expat, was an incorrigible young girl who left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered, even during her battle with cancer. Despite facing the aggressive desmoplastic small round cell tumours (DSRCT) at the tender age of 16, Sakshi would find the strength to bring joy and laughter to those around her. Her mother, Binu Sivan, fondly recalls, “People who came to visit her thought they would be comforting a 16-year-old, but they were the ones who would walk away comforted.”

Sakshi’s journey with cancer began when she was 14, experiencing symptoms such as a lump on her forehead and a sprained hip. After several hospital visits and consultations, a neurologist finally provided a comprehensive diagnosis, revealing the rarity of DSRCT, a disease that was only identified as a separate condition in 1989. With a bleak prognosis and a seven per cent chance of survival, Sakshi embarked on a grueling chemotherapy regimen that tested her resilience and endurance.

Despite the challenges, Sakshi’s positive attitude remained unwavering. Her mother recalls, “She had bad days because she was only 15. Everybody was doing things and she was stuck here, losing her hair, her eyebrows; she loved makeup and loved to dress up. She loved theatre and to act on stage. All of that was affected.” However, Sakshi continued to make the best of her situation, attending her junior prom and even being crowned prom queen. Her determination and zest for life shone through, inspiring everyone around her.

In January 2022, Sakshi underwent a specialized surgery called Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) to combat the disease. Despite the hopes of beating cancer, her condition took a turn for the worse later that year. Terrible headaches, weakened physical state, and fluid build-up in her brain became unbearable obstacles. Yet, Sakshi remained resilient, squinting at her phone to place Sephora orders and listening to her favorite musicians, Harry Styles and Maneskin.

By April, Sakshi was confined to a wheelchair, and in June, doctors delivered the devastating news that there was no treatment left to offer. Determined to explore all possibilities, Sakshi’s family conducted extensive research, reaching out to experts in the United States and trying experimental medications. On July 5, she received a treatment session that offered a glimmer of hope. Tragically, that night, Sakshi experienced a cardiac arrest and slipped into a coma from which she would not awaken. On the following day, she passed away, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, love, and joy.

However, Sakshi’s story does not end there. She continues to impact the world, even after her passing. Known for her ability to bring people together and her forgiving nature, Sakshi’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew her. To honor her passion for theater, her school, GEMS Modern Academy, organized The Sakshi Verkot Memorial Theatre Festival. This event serves as a testament to her infectious enthusiasm and love for the stage.

Reflecting on their beloved student, drama teacher Sheldon John Dias shares, “Sakshi’s passion was infectious. I distinctly remember how her zest for improv performances in class brought out the best in all of us.” The festival became the start of a legacy project, with the aim of nurturing and celebrating theater in the school, just as Sakshi would have wanted.

Sakshi’s friends and peers also cherish their memories with her. Anouschka Bhat fondly recalls a Halloween spent dressing up as Mario and Luigi, a night filled with laughter and joy. Sakshi’s impact on her friends’ lives was profound, and her absence is deeply felt.

In honor of Sakshi’s memory and her dream of becoming a star, her family has established the Sakshi’s Joy Foundation in India. This foundation aims to provide necessary treatment for underprivileged pediatric cancer patients and advocate for research in lesser-known diseases. By speaking openly about their experiences, Sakshi’s family hopes to raise awareness and inspire others to make a difference.

Sakshi Verkot’s legacy lives on as a symbol of courage, kindness, and resilience. Her parents remain proud of the impact she had on the world, and through their joint efforts, her spirit and passion will continue to touch lives. Sakshi’s story is a testament to the power of love and the enduring impact one person can have, even in the face of adversity..