A retired doctor in the United Kingdom who continued working part-time during the COVID-19 pandemic has sadly died from the disease, the Metro reports.
Dr. Alfa Saadu, 68, had been helping out at the Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital in Welwyn, Hertfordshire, until his death. He passed away on Tuesday after falling ill with the respiratory disease two weeks ago, his son Dani revealed in a post on social media, according to the Metro.
"Today at approx 7.30am, Dr Alfa Saadu (my dad) died of the coronavirus," Dani wrote, per the Metro. "He had been fighting the virus for two weeks but he could not fight anymore. The NHS were amazing and did everything they could."
Please do familiarize yourself with the symptoms of this deadly disease:"My dad was a living legend, worked for the NHS for nearly 40 years saving people’s lives here and in Africa," he continued. "Up until he got sick, he was still working part-time saving people."
"The coronavirus is not a joke, please take it seriously and listen to the government. Please stay safe and protect your loved ones – nothing is more important."
In an interview with HuffPost Dani said of his father:
"He was a very passionate man, who cared about saving people. As soon you spoke to him about medicine his face would light up. He was a massive family man and we did everything together. Family came first. He left two sons and a wife, who is a retired doctor herself in occupational health."
In 2016, the Nigerian born doctor was appointed medical director of the Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust.
Lance McCarthy, Chief Executive at Princess Alexandra Hospital, paid tribute to Dr. Saadu in a statement:
"Alfa was well-known at the trust for his passion for ensuring our patients received high quality care. He was a committed member of the team and is remembered fondly by many. His family and friends are in our thoughts at this sad time."
Bukola Saraki, the former President of the Nigerian Senate tweeted: "Late Dr. Sa’adu provided leadership for our people in the diaspora as he served for many years as Chairman, Kwara State Association of Nigeria (Kwasang UK).
"Back at home, he was a community leader and traditional office holder as Galadima of Pategi. He will be sorely missed."
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