10/07/2026
"Flowers have always been part of our family. My mom has the kind of garden people stop to admire. When my sister Keshini lived in Los Angeles, she would buy flowers, make little arrangements, and send us photos. We never imagined they would become part of how we honoured her.
This past February, Kesh died by su***de.
At her visitation, we heard many stories about how she had cared for people. From Kesh sitting beside someone when they were being excluded at school, to helping coworkers when they were being mistreated by customers—she was always there when someone needed her.
When Kesh was alive, we weren’t ashamed of her mental illness but we didn't share publicly because it was her story to tell. Since losing her, we speak more openly about what we did not understand. As her sister, I assumed I would know if Kesh was considering su***de. But now, I know that suicidal thoughts are not always visible.
I want families to know that we cannot always rely on someone appearing deeply depressed or telling us directly that they are struggling. And I want people to know that help is available, even when it doesn’t feel that way. Our dad has always said that if sharing what we have learned can help even one person, then it is worth sharing.
Since Kesh passed, our family and friends have raised funds for CAMH in her memory. Kesh in Bloom grew from an unfinished plan with her best friend, Monica. Monica had taken Kesh to a cake-decorating class, and they planned to try floral arranging next. But they never got the chance.
Monica suggested holding the floral-arranging workshop around Kesh’s birthday, and it felt right. Kesh in Bloom brought us together around something she had wanted to do while raising funds and awareness for mental health.
Monica told me the idea also made her think of my eulogy. In it, I compared Kesh to an annual flower—one that blooms for only a season, even after much care and attention. Kesh’s time with us was far too short, but the beauty she gave us was vivid, radiant and unforgettable. I want people to remember the brightness she brought into their lives and the love she continues to inspire." - Ashwini M.
