Dr. David Silverstein, a dedicated physician, was remembered for his extraordinary commitment to his patients at a memorial service held at Nairobi Hospital. The service was attended by dignitaries, including KANU chairman Gideon Moi and Silverstein's widow, Channa Commanday. Moi described Silverstein as more than a physician, saying he became a trusted friend and confidant to his family, who had been treated by Silverstein for decades.
Moi recalled Silverstein's unwavering commitment to his patients, saying he never allowed power or friendship to influence his medical judgment. He remembered Silverstein as a man who respected people regardless of their race, tribe, or religion. According to Moi, Silverstein believed that everybody was a person in their own right and should be respected as such. Moi also noted that Silverstein's legacy extended beyond medicine, saying that everyone could emulate his respect for others.
Channa Commanday, Silverstein's widow, remembered her husband as a strong defender of patients' rights who refused to remain silent when their dignity was compromised. She recalled how he taught continuously, from the bedside to students, nurses, doctors, patients, and technicians. Channa also noted that even at 82, Silverstein remained busy attending to patients, meetings, synagogue activities, and exercise. His dedication to his work was evident in his daily routine, which included arriving at the hospital at 2 am and making the 6:30 am ward round.
Colleagues and patients remembered Silverstein for his humour and warmth. He was known for his sharp suits and colorful socks, and patients looked forward to his cheerful "Uhuru!" greeting on discharge. Silverstein also ran a free clinic every Wednesday at Jalaram Medical Services, giving his time and resources to patients. His commitment to serving others was evident in his daily interactions with patients and colleagues.
Moi, who knew Silverstein for more than 50 years, said that his legacy would live on through the countless lives he touched. He urged those who knew Silverstein to carry forward his commitment to advocacy and justice. Channa also encouraged those who knew her husband to speak truth to power and unite to demand justice when necessary. Silverstein's family and friends have remembered him as a hero and a person everyone would love to interact with.
Silverstein's dedication to his patients was evident in his work at Nairobi Hospital and his free clinic at Jalaram Medical Services. His commitment to teaching and mentoring others was also evident in his daily interactions with students, nurses, and doctors. Colleagues and patients will remember him for his kindness, compassion, and dedication to serving others.
The memorial service was a testament to Silverstein's impact on the lives of those who knew him. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his family and friends will continue to carry forward his commitment to advocacy and justice. Silverstein is survived by his wife, Channa, and a legacy of medical service, patient advocacy, and respect for human dignity.
Key points
- Dr. David Silverstein was remembered for his dedication to patients, honesty, and compassion at a memorial service held at Nairobi Hospital.
- Silverstein's legacy extended beyond medicine, and he was remembered as a man who respected people regardless of their race, tribe, or religion.
- His family and friends have remembered him as a hero and a person everyone would love to interact with.
