An 18-year-old Indian student from Sharjah has died after battling rare fibrosarcoma, leaving classmates and friends mourning her kindness, faith, positivity and unforgettable smile.
WEBDESK – ZAINAB MIRAJ – SHARJAH NEWS
Friends remember Glowin Chell as a kind, intelligent and deeply positive young woman
The death of an 18-year-old Indian student has left friends, classmates and teachers in Sharjah mourning the loss of a young woman remembered for her warmth, intelligence and unwavering positivity.
Glowin Chell, who spent much of her life in the UAE, died on Tuesday while receiving treatment in Tamil Nadu. She had been fighting fibrosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer affecting soft tissue. Her funeral took place on Wednesday in Marthandam, in Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari district, where members of her Sharjah circle travelled to say their final goodbye.
A painful loss for her classmates
Glowin was a Grade 12 student at GEMS Our Own English High School in Sharjah. Her death has deeply affected her classmates, many of whom were unaware that she had been dealing with a serious illness.
When students return after the summer holiday, Glowin’s absence will be particularly noticeable in her classroom.
Her classmate Reema said the news was difficult to accept, describing Glowin as an intelligent and approachable person who was always pleasant to be around. She recalled the ordinary classroom moments they shared, including laughing together over mistakes made while answering questions.
For Reema, those simple memories have now become some of the most precious reminders of her friend.
She continued studying despite illness
Glowin was diagnosed with cancer around August last year while she was completing Grade 12. Her treatment forced her to take a break from school, but she later returned with the determination to continue her education.
Her classmates said she did not allow her illness to dominate her interactions with others. Instead, she continued to smile, participate in class and maintain a cheerful attitude.
Eshal and Nandana, who studied with her in Grade 12 C, said they were stunned when they learned of her death because they had not realised the seriousness of the health battle she had been facing.
They remembered her as a bright and friendly student whose cheerful personality made an impression on those around her.
Friends remember her gentle personality
Hitiksha, another classmate, said Glowin had a natural warmth that made people comfortable around her. She recalled that Glowin was not afraid to participate in class and would often answer questions when others remained silent.
Her confidence, intelligence and friendly nature made her stand out despite the relatively short time some classmates had known her.
Tehreem, who worked with Glowin during biology practical sessions, remembered her soft-spoken nature and kind behavior. She said Glowin’s smile and gentle manner were qualities that would remain in her memory.
A friendship that began years ago
For some of Glowin’s closest friends, the connection went back much further than Grade 12.
Melinda, who had known her since Grade 9, described Glowin as someone who continued to care for others even while dealing with her own difficulties.
She recalled Glowin helping friends with their hairstyles, particularly during school picture days, and sharing her knowledge whenever someone needed assistance.
Melinda said she did not want Glowin’s memory to be defined by her illness. Instead, she wanted people to remember the teenager for her generosity, talents, faith and determination.
Her faith inspired those around her
Glowin’s strong religious faith was another quality frequently mentioned by those who knew her well.
Hafsa, a close friend, said she admired the way Glowin maintained her faith during difficult stages of her illness. According to Hafsa, Glowin continued to believe that there was meaning and goodness beyond the challenges she was experiencing.
Layyah also remembered her as a quiet and gentle person who made others feel valued and accepted.
A lasting impact
Glowin’s influence was not limited to her classmates. Melinda’s mother, Renny, said the teenager’s courage and faith had also left a strong impression on their family.
She recalled that Glowin rarely complained about her circumstances and remained hopeful throughout her treatment.
Her unexpected death has left those who knew her struggling to come to terms with the loss. Friends who had expected to see her continue her studies and build her future are now left with memories of the young woman who brought happiness to those around her.
For Glowin’s classmates in Sharjah, her empty seat will be a painful reminder of the friend they lost. But those closest to her say her kindness, smile, faith and positive spirit will ensure that she remains remembered long after her final day at school.
