Dr. Farmer was named Aurora Humanitarian on April 24, 2021, in recognition of his work with PIH, an international non-profit organization that brings the benefits of modern medical science to those who need it the most. In October 2021, he took part in the 2021 Aurora Prize events in Venice, Italy.

Throughout his life, Dr. Farmer was driven by the same need to help others that is so fundamental to Aurora’s concept of Gratitude in Action — a concept he fully supported by saying “Gratitude in Action is what we need. There is not one of us who hasn’t benefitted from the kindness of others. Often, it’s family, but strangers, too.”

In his last interview with Aurora, Dr. Farmer talked about the elimination of inequality: “If you look at what causes the most disgruntlement in the world, it's usually inequality. But this is often related to things like education, healthcare, the ability to have freedom from want. So, if we can address those needs, which is what Partners In Health is focused on, I think we'll have a less troubled world going forward.”

Paul Farmer has helped millions of people by strengthening healthcare systems in 11 countries, which was especially crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his death is a great loss for the global humanitarian movement. But his legacy will live on.