'Brilliant' doctor who worked on Covid-19 frontline dies aged 33
A “brilliant” doctor who has been battling Covid-19 on the frontline for months died suddenly last week of a heart attack while at work.
Dr Roshan Jha was helping patients on November 21 at Rochester General Hospital in New York, where he was working as a resident physician, at around 1.30pm, according to a GoFundMe created to help his devastated young wife, Sweta Thakur.
When he didn’t return home for lunch, Ms Thakur became worried and people began searching the hospital for Dr Jha.
He was eventually found unresponsive and despite resuscitation attempts, he could not be saved.
“Dr Jha was one of the finest residents in the program and an impeccable human being,” Deveshi Rai, who created the fundraiser, said.
“He wanted to pursue a career in cardiology.
“He was a responsible son and brother, a caring husband, and a compassionate physician, helping patients on the frontlines with the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Dr Jha posted numerous news articles about the deadly pandemic and the tragic number of deaths that had occurred in New York state.
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His grieving wife is now facing a very uncertain future and costly funeral bills.
“Sweta is in the middle of her dentistry school with a debt of about $300,000,” Deveshi said.
“With Dr Roshan Jha gone, her visa status, income source, and funds for completion of her education have all become uncertain.”
Dr Jha’s legacy
Almost A$250,000 has been raised to help Ms Thakur get back on her feet and provide a proper burial for her husband.
Many people who have donated to the GoFundMe have posted comments about the doctor’s incredible contribution to his community.
“I will eternally be grateful for all of the knowledge you imparted during my time as a medical student. This is an incredibly tragic loss,” one person wrote.
“In memory of Dr Roshan Jha, who embodied the qualities of a physician who strived for excellence and cared deeply about this patients. His name shall live on at RGH,” a second person said.
A third colleague said Dr Jha was “thoughtful, generous and always prioritised the well-being of others”.
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