Dr Nikhil Autar, a prominent doctor and former NSW Young Australian of the Year, has died at the age of 32. He was diagnosed with leukaemia at just 17 years old and underwent chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants, and open heart surgery throughout his life.
Dedication to Helping Others
Dr Autar dedicated his life to assisting those struggling with long-term illnesses and disabilities. He founded Bheem Health, an organisation that helps provide medical devices to those in need. His work extended to co-founding Doctors Against Violence Towards Women (DAVTW), a group that supports victims of domestic violence.
Tributes Pour In
A heartbreaking post from DAVTW confirmed his death on Wednesday. The organisation wrote: 'It is with profound grief that we share the news of the passing of our beloved co-founder, Dr Nikhil Autar. There are people who move through the world quietly making it better. Dr Nikhil Autar was one of them and DAVTW would not exist without him.'
Co-founder Dr Anita Hutchison shared a separate tribute, stating: 'There was something about his approach, the selflessness, that made me trust him. He did not want anything from us. He just wanted to help.'
Australian of the Year Richard Scoyler and his wife, Dr Katie Nicoll, also paid tribute. They said: 'We are deeply saddened following the passing of Nikhil Autar, a remarkable Australian who showed us all the importance of living with compassion, kindness and a never-ending commitment to helping others. Nikhil's determination and courage, coupled with his humility and wonderful sense of humour shone brightly.'
