Pakistan, March 21 -- Words stung by mockery to target someone's health are cruel and used to wound me. During the period of prolonged illness of the Late Kulsoom Nawaz, I was in London and compellingly following the daily stories to learn the updates on her health. Kulsoom was a woman I have never met, but she's someone I greatly admire.

Kulsoom Nawaz's health declined rapidly after her initial diagnosis of lymphoma in June 2017. She struggled in and out of consciousness during her clinical care and was eventually placed on a ventilator. Long-term illness, even in the most stable and supportive families, brings changes. It produces disequilibrium in the family structure and attitudes until pain is buried.

The former first lady was in a...