‘Devastated’ colleagues pay tribute to ‘dedicated’ Pilgrim Hospital nurse, ‘fantastic’ father, and ‘devoted’ husband who died after testing positive for coronavirus

Yesterday evening (Thursday, April 30), a special blue light ‘clap for carers’ display was held at the hospital in honour of Anujkumar Kuttikkottu Pavithran (or ‘Kumar’ to his colleagues).

The husband and father-of-two tragically died on Monday following a battle with coronavirus. He was 44.

This evening’s tribute saw rows of staff – some clearly emotional – hold a sustained round of applause in his memory.

A piper played Going Home ahead of it and Amazing Grace at its conclusion, with blue balloons released during it.

The show of gratitude extended to the road that runs through the hospital where vehicles with flashing lights paraded through the site, including those from other emergency services and a number of local businesses.

The tribute was organised by Kumar’s colleague on 5B Jessie Williams, with assistance from Shaun Stark, of Starky’s Transport and Recovery.

Jessie wore a t-shirt on the evening which carried Kumar’s graduation picture on it and the phrase ‘NHS hero’ – another was worn by one of Kumar’s children who attended the display.

Jessie told the Standard: “Kumar started his NHS journey nine years ago, working as a healthcare assistant, where he was loved so much as a colleague and friend. He then went to pursue his career as a nurse, and on qualifying he accepted a job on 5B, where he’s worked the last six months, a stone’s throw away from where he stated on 5A. He was extremely dedicated to his job.

“Kumar was a very smiley and kind man, and he loved a joke. He had a beautiful soul, he was always polite, and was a valuable member of his work team.

“Most importantly, Kumar was devoted to his wife and his two sons, which he sadly leaves behind. He was in every way the most fantastic father, and loyal, devoted, loving husband.

“All of his work colleagues are devastated, and he leaves a huge hole in our team, and grief too. He will be deeply missed by all those he had befriended in the Pilgrim Hospital.”

* A fundraising page set up in aid of Kumar’s family has now raised more than £43,000. You can donate here.