BBC viewers were left heartbroken after tribute was paid to Dr Vishna Rasiah on Tuesday night's Life and Birth.
The medical professional - who starred on the BBC documentary series and worked at Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust - died from coronavirus in April and the doctor was given a special mention in memory of his outstanding work when the show aired last night.
A photo of Vishna was shown on air at the end of the episode alongside the words: "Dr Vishna Rasiah. 19th July 1971 - 23rd April 2020."
Fans of the series, that allows viewers to see inside one of Birmingham’s busiest maternity hospitals, took to Twitter to share their upset at the devastating news.
One emotional watcher typed: "Tonight's episode of #LifeAndBirth is dedicated to the irreplaceable Dr Vishna Rasiah who tragically lost his fight with COVID-19 He helped so many families including those in this episode, and was a huge supporter of the show. We remember his service and sacrifice. RIP x
Another added: "Just watched the episode of #LifeAndBirth which was dedicated Dr Vishna Rasiah, who tragically lost his fight with COVID-19. Shine bright you’ve left a great legacy behind."
Others recalled how amazing the doctor was as they typed online: "What an emotional and gorgeous episode of#LifeAndBirth So sad to think that the amazingly talented Dr Vishna Rasiah passed away with Covid 19. He was such an incredible doctor & helped so many people."
"Watched Life and Birth on BBC One this evening and witnessed the amazing work done by Dr Vishna Rasiah. So sad to hear this news but hits home the selfless acts our key workers perform everyday. I salute you," echoed another.
Filled with emotion others added: "#LifeAndBirth totally crying the Dr Vishna Rasiah passed away with Covid19 what a hero" and "That was such an emotional episode. All those new little humans being born and then realising at the end that Dr Vishna Rasiah was one of the doctors who lost their life to Covid-19. An awfully sad ending. #LifeAndBirth."
Following Dr Rasiah's passing, Sarah-Jane Marsh, chief executive of the trust said: "Losing him in such a cruel and unfair way will be too much to bear for many of us, in particular anyone involved in neonatal care, and of course his beautiful wife and daughter.
"As our tears flow, we must always remember the values that Vish stood for, and hold his vision, courage and compassion in our hearts. God bless you Vish, and may you rest in peace."
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