Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance:

The Vivek A. Patel Foundation

Total Number of Gifts: 87

Total Value of Gifts: $6,812.00

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Our beloved son and brother, Late Vivek Amrut Patel (1985 - 2009) of Cranston, RI, went to his final resting place at very tender age of 23 on February 22, 2009.

Born on October 28, 1985, in Norwood, MA, to Amrut and Champa Patel, he was the younger of two children. He was a 2003 graduate of Moses Brown School, Providence, RI and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2008 with an Economics major. He was employed as a Strategy Analyst at Digitas Inc. in New York, NY.

He fought a losing battle against a paralyzing mental condition Bipolar Disorder for the past several years. In spite of ongoing professional help, this dreadful disease sapped vital energy out of his life and eventually he succumbed.

Despite this ongoing struggle, he always projected cheerfulness, kindness and sensitivity to those came in contact with him. The Faculty Award he received from his school read: “Perhaps more than anything else, we will remember you for the way you notice other people’s feelings.” He was an inspiration to many and earned numerous awards for his untiring volunteerism.

A volunteer to the core, helping others gave him the ultimate joy. He championed causes such as awareness and outreach for mental illnesses and AIDS and HIV. This past year he helped organize a formal AIDS gala fundraiser in Philadelphia that raised over $8,000 for AIDS research. For two summers, he was a camp counselor at Camp Safe Haven, a camp for young children with AIDS. He collaborated with fellow Management 100 Team members to promote and increase readership of a community service magazine.

His belief in principles of nonviolence had led him to observe strict vegetarianism.

Deeply spiritual, he had recently joined Calvary Episcopal Church in New York City.

He leaves behind a legacy of selfless service in spite of the many challenges he faced during his short visit to the planet Earth. If we remember him for nothing other than his example of selflessly serving others, his legacy will not be lost.

This is a memory of Vivek that we will always love and cherish.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-Nuxp4htDU

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Leslie Delauter Mon, Mar 30, 2009 To the Patel Family - Please know that all of the staff of Penn's College Houses are deeply saddened to hear about Vivek and are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Leslie Delauter Director, College Houses & Academic Services
Brittany Porter Thu, Mar 12, 2009 Vivek, You already were missed, by me. I felt the months and years blowing by without you and awaited your reappearance. In spite of SIX years, NO contact, your presence stayed with me intact. In the past two, a little voice somewhere would crescendo--some staccatoed cackle would work its disarming magic. And still i didn't listen. I tried to reconnect but alas (at least in years pre-Facebook): was waiting for Magic. Little did I know you'd barely be a grown man, only to become: more than a man. Flickering full circle, all too quick like will o' the wisp. But that's how you went about everyday before our very eyes. Flickering away. Sometimes you just moved too fast for the rest of us. Rest assured you were understood more than you know. However vague time may have washed my own recollections, you carved yourself forever on this nascent spirit. With that cackle perhaps. Or that doe-eyed smile. Or your unabashed kindness. Or that constant source of entertainment you so affectionately gave. = ) (YouTube being a refreshing...but just so bitter reminder!) Or how you reached out to me in MY crises--soothed me like no one could in my own darkness. Or how you'd probably be laughing at my snotty hot mess of a face right now. Through shenanigans or shrugs, a pat on the shoulder or hugs, some little smirk making all that trouble or a flash of that smile...you were effortless, embodied light. Why could't you live in your own Light? You just had a way of reaching so easily. Why couldn't you just let one of us reach you? Too fast for us. And over our heads. Fine. Have it that way. For whenever you shared yourself, you shared fully. Then and now, stilled: we LOVE you with the Heart only a soul like yours could bring out. You, Vivek, were a Gift. And though I wish it something fierce that you'd've heard a LOT sooner... and though this is far from my last words for you: Thank You, Vivek, for being You. -Brittany MB '03
Judy Mattiucci and Family Sat, Mar 07, 2009 Dear Patel family, I was deeply saddened by the loss your family has recently experienced. I know no words that can provide you with comfort at this most difficult moment. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. I can only imagine the grief you are feeling at this time and wish only that as time passes you may find some peace. With deepest sympathy, Judy Mattiucci and family
Rajiv,Falguni, Soor & Rishma Fri, Mar 06, 2009 Dear Amrutbhai & Champaben, We have heard this so many times that "The ones that are dear to god go to Him quickly" and yet it is so shocking and devastating to even think that a boy whom we have seen grow up is no more! Vivek was such an exemplary boy in so many ways! He was bright, respectful, caring and had a very pleasant personality. We are feeling helpless being so many miles away from Rhode Island but our thoughts and prayers are with you!
Carla Paynter Thu, Mar 05, 2009 Vivek and I were old friends at Moses Brown School. He used to make me laugh and laugh. When I think about those times, it makes me smile. My family and I hold the Patel family in our thoughts. We all loved Vivek.
The Pande Family Wed, Mar 04, 2009 The tide recedes but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand. The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land. The music stops, and yet it echoes on in sweet refrains..... For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains. Our thoughts and prayer will always be with you.
caroline patterson Tue, Mar 03, 2009 I have so many happy memories of Vivek and my son during their years at Moses Brown. It was a delight to know him and my heart breaks for you all with your loss. May his bright and loving spirit find a way to hold you close and keep you going in love.
Pooja, Prutha, Shiv, Jayesh & Sonal Patel Mon, Mar 02, 2009 Vivek always put a smile on our face. Whenever we all got together at Indian parties and functions, he was always there to make us laugh. Vivek had a kind and wise spirit about him that uplifted and amazed all those in his presence. Our family mourns his loss and we wish the best for all those closest to him. A Humble Tribute... "How much will we remember, many years down the road what threads of recollection will glean, like threads of gold, Time wears away the colors, the pattern may disappear, But this much we'll remember And believe us to be true, One thing that will never fade is our memory of you." Love, Pooja, Prutha, Shiv, Jayesh & Sonal Patel
Ashok and Arthi Shah Sun, Mar 01, 2009 Amrutbhai, Champaben and Ronak, We are deeply saddened by your loss.Thank you for sharing Vivek's video. It is amazing. Vivek was an extraordinary human being. His kindness, pleasant and helpful nature will be remembered for ever. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and may his Soul rest in peace.
Vijay/Neelam Kumar Sun, Mar 01, 2009 NO words could express the loss to family and community. Time does not stop for anybody, you live but you feel you are not complete and departed soul's memoories live with you rest of your live and thats my personal feelings. We pray for peace for Vivek' soul
Vijay/Neelam Kumar Sun, Mar 01, 2009 NO words could express the loss to family and community. Time does not stop for anybody, you live but you feel you are not complete and departed soul's memoories live with you rest of your live and thats my personal feelings. We pray for peace for Vivek' soul
Nikhil Shah Sun, Mar 01, 2009 Amrutbhai,Chmpaben,Ronak Vivek was gifted child. He had won many hearts at Moses Brown school and he was often mentioned at the school as roll model for others. He will be missed and may his soul rest in peace! Nikhil, Sachi and Nishant
Sharad Bhatia Sat, Feb 28, 2009 Thank you so much for posting the video. It is incredibly funny...brings Vivek's memories vividly back to those of us who haven't seen him much since he graduated from Moses Brown and moved to Penn. As many of his peers and colleagues, who would have known him best, have noted, Vivek was an extraordinarily warm, delightful and compassionate young man. Truly unfortunate that such a rare human being has been lost to us. He will be missed, but memories about his kindness, cheerfulness, compassion and brilliance will endure.
Eli Akerstein Fri, Feb 27, 2009 I am so sorry to hear about Vivek. My thoughts are with your family.
Niraj Patel Fri, Feb 27, 2009 May he rest in peace. Even though he was my cousin, I regret not having the opportunity to get to know him more. But I could tell he was full of life and ambition. We pray for him and the family.
Sunil Bhatia and Anjali Ram Fri, Feb 27, 2009 This must be a deeply painful and difficult time for you and your family. We cannot imagine or even fully understand what this loss means for you, but we hope and pray that you get the inner strength to endure this tragedy.
Kendra Sandidge Thu, Feb 26, 2009 I will always remember you Vivek for your incredibly bright and sunny spirit. I think of the good times we shared and I love that a smile still comes to my face, even if my eyes fill with tears. I know that you are in a much better, peaceful place now. Your family is in my prayers. In just the short time I got to know you, my life was truly blessed and I thank you for that.
Charlyn Okigbo Thu, Feb 26, 2009 I met Vivek about 6 yrs ago while we were students at Penn, and I was immediately drawn to his personality. For the past 6 years, I've spoken to Viv almost everyday. If I wasn't calling, I was emailing. If I wasn't emailing, I was texting. Vivek was a constant in my life. He was my best friend. The hardest part of his passing for me, as I'm sure for all of you, is that I now have to live the rest of my life without his physical presence. I have no choice but to wake up each morning and face the world without my best friend. Even though this loss is the hardest thing I've ever had to deal with, even though this pain is so raw and deep, I still believe that despite all this pain, it is better to have known and lost Vivek, than to never have known him. Because to know Vivek was to know true friendship and compassion. To know Vivek was to know pure kindness. As much joy as Vivek brought into our lives, for 6 yrs, 23 yrs, however long we knew him; and as much as it hurts us to know we must continue on without his physical presence, we should take solace in the fact that Vivek can now experience the same joy that he brought us. His spirit can finally know true happiness. His spirit can finally experience the peace Vivek never knew during his time on earth. There will only be one Vivek Patel, and Viv, I am honored to have been your friend. I will never forget you and I will always love you.
Rita , Rahul, Rabinder kurl Thu, Feb 26, 2009 Dear Amrut and family, Shocked by the news of Viveks death. Its a tragedy.We had a chance to meet him when he was at Moses Brown. He was Rahul's mentor.He was a wonderful young man.May god give you strength to bear his loss with strength and fortitude.
John Gambino Wed, Feb 25, 2009 In the four months I worked with Vivek we became close enough to talk about personal troubles that we had been experiencing. He was an excellent listener and helped me out a lot when I was going through way too much. Hearing the news has left me completely distraught. I wish we made more of an effort to keep in touch, but we all know how that works out some times. Vivek was an incredible person, as I'm sure a lot of you will be saying or have already said. So personable, so hilarious, and I always loved being around him. He was such a great support. I know he would have accomplished so many more things. I cannot express enough how horrible I am feeling right now. I wish I would have been able to attend the funeral but didn't find out until this evening. Even though I haven't seen him or communicated with him in a few years I can't help but miss him terribly right now. We had so much fun together the short time our lives had crossed paths. He was an amazing person I will never forget.
Jingcai Zhu Wed, Feb 25, 2009 I'll never forget the moment that we first met as 17-year olds at Penn, in August 2003. We were sitting in a circle as a Management 100 team for the very first time and the ten of us were making awkward obligatory introductions. I was only half-paying attention to the talking when I heard, "Hi, I'm Vivek and I looooove Missy Elliott." True to his nature, Vivek made everyone laugh a bit and I knew that we would instantly click. While over the years we each grew and went our separate ways, some things never changed. Whether it was helping me pick out a birthday present for my best friend (and then telling her what I bought!), forcing the DJ at Smokes to play better music or simply reflecting on life and love, Vivek never failed to bring a smile to my face. I will forever miss his genuine warmth and candor that everyone needs in a friend. There isn't a single person who doesn't know that Vivek Patel is someone that you only have to meet once to have an imprint of a lifetime - I cannot even begin to verbalize the joy that he brought every person that he touched. I hope that Vivek finds peace as the world will miss his truly, fabulous self. Love always, J
Jaymin, Kinnari, Rishi and Jenna Patel Wed, Feb 25, 2009 Amrutbhai, Champaben and Ronak, We are deeply saddened for your loss. It is hard to imagine the grief you are feeling and we hope that as time passes you will find some inner peace. It is clear that Vivek was a highly accomplished and extraordinary human being. In his relatively short life, he made such a difference in this world and to the lives of so many people. He will live on in the thoughts of the many people he touched. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
RAVI CHANDER & PARUL SHAH Wed, Feb 25, 2009 This is an absolute cruelty and a shocking reality to see a young and intelligent man taken away so prematurely...our minds cannot fathom such an occurrence. We deeply grieve this moment and pray for Vivek's soul to rest in peace. Our most sincere sympathies with Amrut Bhai and family.
Jayanti, Urmila, Millie, Minal, & Manish -- Fayetteville, AR Wed, Feb 25, 2009 To the beloved Vivek's family, Angels are crying, and so are we. We were shocked and devastated by the news of your tragic loss. We hardly know what to say, but please know how very sorry we are that this has happened to you. Every time we saw Vivek, he was full of life and always had a bright, contagious smile on his face. At gatherings, he always made it a point to seek out the person that was standing alone in the corner, and engage them in a conversation. Like instinct, it was as if he sensed their dreaded solitude. He would ask how you were doing and what you had been up to since he had seen you last, and he was TRULY interested in the answers. This is his particular brand of magic that stands out most prominently in our memory. His volunteer activities further demonstrate that he is very essence of compassion and an ideal symbol of selfless humanity. We all feel cheated that he was taken from us so young and yet we must learn to be grateful that he came along at all. We can only hope that the world would have more people like him, as that would be one of our best hopes of improving it. We know that we cannot comfort you, that we cannot take the pain away from you; God only can do that. But we do want to express how deeply and tenderly we feel for you in your affliction. Our love and support will always be here for you in your time of need. Although life without him is very, very difficult, may knowing that he is in God's loving care and the precious memories you hold in your heart help soothe your souls at this painful time.
Jayesh, Sonal, Pooja, Prutha, Shiv Wed, Feb 25, 2009 "I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an unforgettable imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love." Vivek had such an uplifting spirit. He brought joy and great laughter to those around him. We will always keep with us loving memories of Vivek.

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