The touching final words of an 81-year-old pensioner have left viewers heartbroken this week, following the broadcast of medical docuseries Hospital on the BBC.

After being told that he only had a 10 to 20% chance of surviving a procedure to close a hole left in his heart after a heart attack, former decorator Joe remained upbeat and was full of praise for the health workers who had helped him.

While waiting over three weeks for surgery, Joe used a temporary balloon pump to keep himself alive, before sharing what turned out to be his final words with the camera.

Watch the heartbreaking exchange here:

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As he lay in bed before the tragically unsuccessful procedure, the Liverpool resident said:

"I'm lucky enough to say I've had and lived a good enough sort of life and I don't want to lose it so I keep battling and hope for the best. You can say a few hours from now it's one way or the other. Please God, it goes the right way. I've got to the stage now where this is it, it's D-Day. This is the moment."

Finally, before entering the operating theatre for the final time, Joe added, "Make sure and say tara to my family." ("Tara" is a common informal expression meaning 'goodbye' in northern England.)

The poignant exchange had a powerful effect on many viewers. One Twitter user wrote, "Oh my goodness, this is one of the hardest and most gut-wrenching things I think I’ve ever seen. RIP Joe" while several more praised the compassion and professionalism of the NHS staff.

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As he was waiting for surgery, Joe also had some advice for anyone finding themselves in a similar situation. As he looked through a collection of old photographs, he revealed to the camera:

"As you lay here in this situation, every human being at all would have to think about their own life. What they've done. Don't reflect on what you've done wrong, just be yourself."

Incredible words, Joe. You'll be missed.

Viewers heartbroken at pensioner's final words before dying in surgery