Bulwark Takes A Colleague Remembers Alex Pretti (w/ Dr. Aasma Shaukat)
Jan 25, 2026
Dr. Aasma Shaukat, an associate physician and clinical researcher who worked with Alex Pretti at the Minneapolis VA, shares firsthand recollections of his life and character. She recounts hiring him, his nursing path, calm bedside manner, empathy with veterans, love of the outdoors, juggling low-pay jobs, civic engagement, and colleagues’ shock at his death.
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From Research Assistant To ICU Nurse
- Aasma Shaukat hired Alex Pretti as a research assistant and watched him grow into a nurse over six years.
- He worked nights delivering pizzas and rearranged hours to attend nursing school while staying dedicated to patients.
Patient-Focused Research Work
- Alex served as a research coordinator screening and consenting veterans for colon cancer studies.
- Shaukat emphasized his empathy and strong people skills that made him effective with vulnerable patients.
Working Nights To Make Ends Meet
- To supplement low pay, Alex delivered pizzas at night and tried to qualify as an Uber driver.
- His team supported him, shared food, and helped him get by while he pursued healthcare goals.