Tayyab Ali (Father) by Talha Ali

Who would you consider your best friend throughout your whole life?

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-09 23:17:03 UTC

That would be my younger brother. We grew up doing everything together—whether it was playing cricket in the streets or getting into trouble for climbing trees we weren’t supposed to. He stayed in Pakistan when I moved to the U.S., and even though we were far apart, we stayed close through calls and yearly visits In 2023, he moved to Canada, specifically in Toronto. It’s such a blessing to now have him only a six-hour drive away now. In the time since his immigration, we've already had multiple reunions, and it feels great to have my best friend so much closer.

Do you see any similarity in your work and your hobbies?

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-09 23:21:57 UTC

Yes, I think there’s a connection between the two. As a nephrologist, a lot of my work involves paying attention to the details and staying patient—it’s the same with hiking. When you’re on a trail, you’re observing everything: the path, the surroundings, the terrain. It requires focus and a sense of balance, just like treating patients does. Both give me a sense of accomplishment—whether it’s helping someone improve their health or reaching the peak of a hike. Spending time outdoors and being a part of these hiking groups have always been my go-to way to keep myself fit, and strenuous trails don't hold us back.

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-09 23:22:38 UTC

What is your biggest regret?

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-09 23:23:45 UTC

My biggest regret is probably not spending enough time with my parents before I moved to the U.S. At the time, I was so focused on starting a new life and building a future right after obtaining my medical degree that I didn’t realize how much I would miss just the simple moments with them. You know, sitting down for chai or listening to their stories of my four older sisters. I mean, I’ve gone back to visit a few times, but it’s not the same as being there with them every day. I wish I had appreciated that more when I had the chance.

Describe your first job. What was your biggest takeaway?

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-09 23:25:14 UTC

What was an important day that you remember, and why?

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-09 23:26:13 UTC

That would have to be the day I got my visa to move to the U.S. I was so nervous waiting in the consulate, and honestly, I didn’t know what to expect. When they told me it was approved, it felt like this huge weight was lifted off my shoulders. It was such a big moment because it wasn’t just about me—it was about starting a new life, building something for my future family. I’ll never forget that mix of relief and excitement.

Tell me a funny story of something that happened to you.

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-09 23:27:10 UTC

I was around 10 years old. I bought a goat for Eid-ul-Adha, and somehow it managed to escape while I was walking it home. I ended up chasing this goat through the streets while everyone was watching and laughing. It was chaos—kids were cheering me on, and even the shopkeepers stopped what they were doing to watch. Eventually, some kids helped me corner it, but people teased me about it for weeks after. It was one of those moments I still can laugh at, and a story I've told my four children multiple times.

Who was someone that inspired you? Talk a little about this person.

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-09 23:30:15 UTC

My father, for sure. He worked so hard to provide for our family, and he didn’t complain about it. I have a very hard time even remembering him getting angry at me or any of my other five siblings. Even though he didn’t have much education, he was one of the wisest people I’ve ever known. He always encouraged me to study and make something of myself, things he couldn’t do because of his circumstances. I am happy to say that it was because of him pushing me that I was able to fulfill his dream of having one of his kids pursue medicine. I think about him a lot when I’m facing challenges, and it pushes me to keep going. Although he has passed now, that won't make me forget the significant impact he has had to my life.

Tell me about a passion or interest you have. When did you become interested in this? What should we know about it?

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-09 23:32:48 UTC

I've always been an outdoors person, whether it was playing sports, going on hikes, or trips to national parks with my family. However, one thing that I’ve revived from my past recently is gardening. My first experience of this was back in Pakistan when we had a small piece of land where we grew vegetables. I remember planting seeds with my father and being amazed when they grew into plants. Now, our family makes an effort to grow vegetables in our backyard when the season allows it. There’s something really satisfying about taking care of something and watching it grow.

talhaali1394 — 2025-01-10 16:00:45 UTC