Mariam Shah is one of the most interesting people I have ever met. She is a chef, artist, entertainer, teacher, and beloved friend. Mariam deferred her admission to our alma mater for several years, and it is my excellent fortune that when she finally decided to enroll at Bennington College, it was at the same time as me.

Since we graduated, my attachment to Mariam has only grown. I have watched with pride and delight as she has enjoyed many successes and created beautiful things in her quest to bring Pakistani cuisine to its rightful place in American hearts and kitchens.

Mariam’s warmth, creativity and wicked sense of humor are matched only by her toughness and independence. These latter qualities enabled her to make a life for herself from scratch in a new country. They probably also just saved her life.

For more than three years, Mariam suffered constant GI issues; chronic pain in her stomach, hip and lower back; inability to pass gas to the point that she couldn’t sleep; and frequent urination similar to what a person would experience late in pregnancy (I share those last few details with permission). Something was seriously wrong. Mariam clearly felt that there was an obstruction in her abdomen pressing up against her right side, but for years these concerns were dismissed.

Finally, in December, Mariam’s determination to be heard and to find answers finally yielded results. Huge masses were found in her reproductive system. These masses were constricting her vital organs and causing her symptoms. Two weeks ago she underwent a complete hysterectomy, which revealed that Mariam’s uterus, which should be the size of a pear, had enlarged to the nearly the size of a wine bottle, while one of her ovaries, which should be about the size of an almond, had enlarged to the size of a CANTALOUPE. Yes, you read that right.

Tests conducted after her operation ruled out cancer. But other challenges await. Healing from this extremely intense surgery is a long road. On top of that, hysterectomies cause the abrupt onset of menopause, which usually requires follow-up care.

In the meantime, this incredibly hardworking person is under strict orders to rest and let her body heal. A few days ago, doing something as simple and normal as preparing herself a meal, she overextended herself and suffered internal bleeding. Things are now getting back on track, but this incident has underscored the reality that her recovery will not be successful without total and complete rest. This means that for now, she can’t do the things that pay her bills. This isn’t something that toughness and independence can solve; it’s time for us to help.

Mariam has nourished all of us—with laughter, knowledge, care, food and contagious creative ambition. We now have the opportunity to nourish her in return. Please join me in helping to provide for our wonderful friend’s recovery.

On behalf of Mariam and all those who love her, deepest thanks for anything you are able to do to help. Any amount helps, and sharing this GoFundMe with others helps too.