Tribute to 'kind and generous' occupational therapist who died after contracting coronavirus

Vivek Sharma was described as a gentle soul who was kind and generous
Vivek Sharma died after contracting coronavirus while isolating as a vulnerable member of staff
PA
Imogen Braddick20 April 2020

An occupational therapist described as a "gentle soul" has died after contracting coronavirus.

Tributes have been paid to Vivek Sharma who died on Friday after becoming ill with Covid-19.

The 58-year-old, who had two sons, one of whom was due to be married this year, was described as kind and generous by colleagues.

"We are sad to announce that Vivek Sharma, our clinical falls lead, died on Friday," a statement issued on Monday by Kent-based Medway Community Healthcare said.

“He had been isolating as a vulnerable member of staff due to underlying health conditions, and became ill with coronavirus.

"Vivek was married with two sons, one due to marry this year. He was a valued member of MCH staff and an occupational therapist by background, and most recently worked in the falls team at Walter Brice Centre.

“He was a member of EMF (our employee forum), passionate about being a voice and advocate for staff and always happy to help.

“On behalf of the executive team, the board, and Vivek’s colleagues, we have spoken to his family and expressed our condolences.

“Our thoughts are with Vivek’s family and friends, with his immediate team, with those who worked closely with him, and with anyone who met and knew him.”

It comes as a 60-year-old nurse at Stafford County Hospital also died after contracting the virus.

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Tracy Bullock, chief executive at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) described Mr McManus, as a "loveable character and brought kindness and compassion to all his patients".

In a statement issued on Monday, she said: “He was an exceptional leader and took staff and students under his wing.

"His big Irish personality will be sorely missed by his friends and colleagues at UHNM."

At least 43 NHS workers are known to have died after contracting Covid-19, but the figure is likely to be much higher.

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