A 58-year-old dedicated leading cardiac surgeon in Wales has died after contracting the novel coronavirus.

Jitendra Rathod, a leading cardiac surgeon, was admitted to the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, after falling ill.

Rathod, who is father of 2 kids, was transferred to an ICU.

Sadly, despite the best efforts, the surgeon died on the morning of Monday.

The tragic news about the 58-year-old was confirmed by health officials on the evening of Monday.

A statement was also released by the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board after the death of the surgeon.

The statement said:

“It is with profound sadness that we must inform you that Mr Jitendra Rathod, associate specialist in cardiothoracic surgery, has passed away. He died early this morning on our general intensive care unit after testing positive for Covid-19.”

Rathod, a heart specialist who also does lungs and other thoracic (chest) organs, has been working in the department of cardio-thoracic surgery since the mid-1990s.

Rathod, who was also known as Jitu, had a brief stint in a different country before he returned to the University Hospital of Wales in 2006.

Colleagues described the doctor as a dedicated surgeon who cared deeply for his patients.

Dr. Rathod was highly regarded in the medical profession in wales.

The statement by the University Hospital of Wales added:

“He was well-liked and and greatly respected by one and all. He was very compassionate and a wonderful human being. His commitment to the speciality was exemplary. He is survived by his wife and two sons.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the doctor.

May you rest in peace Dr. Rathod.