Tributes are pouring in for a “superhero” doctor who died at Royal Berkshire Hospital of coronavirus.
An associate specialist in neuro-rehabilitation at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, Dr Peter Tun, 62, passed away on Monday, April 13 at Royal Berkshire Hospital’s intensive care unit.
Dr Tun’s son Michael Tun confirmed that his father had died from Covid-19 in a tweet yesterday.
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He said: “So proud of my superhero dad Dr Peter Tun. He was looking forward to retirement and wanted to play with his grandchildren (when I have them eventually).
“He died of COVID19 on Monday. I miss you so much dad!”
Dr Tun’s two sons paid tribute to their “superhero dad” in a statement yesterday alongside the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation trust, which announced the news and paid its respects to the “extremely well-loved member of the team”.
READ MORE: Sons pay tribute to 'superhero' specialist who died after contracting covid-19
Dozens of tributes have since flooded social media from those who worked with him, were treated by him or those knew him in the Reading community.
Sam Parks said: “Such heartbreaking news – Peter was a true gentleman and an incredible doctor.
“I had the privilege of working with him for many years as part of the neuro-rehab team & his dedication to his patients and colleagues was amazing. My thoughts and love go to his family at this sad time.”
Dr Tun, who came to the UK from Burma in 1994, was promoted to associate specialist in 2004, and was a member and contributor to the British Society of Rehabilitation Medicine.
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Another tribute, from Noel Peter, said: “Heartbroken. Peter was a fantastic clinician – I knew him well during my time at RBH. Always armed with a smile and such a gentle spirit. Thinking of his family and the team at RBH at this difficult time. RIP Pete.”
So sorry to hear of the death of Dr Peter Tun at @RBNHSFT where he worked in neurorehabilitation. Described as a superhero by his family, he was a much respected member of our family. As his colleague @VauxEmma says, he valued the RCP, and we valued his support.
— Royal College of Physicians (@RCPLondon) April 15, 2020
Hannah Dunk said: “My heart goes out to his family at this sad time. He was a wonderful doctor with a brilliant sense of humour. I’ve always remembered all the advice he gave me and my Mum over the years. Such a sad loss.”
Dean Wilks said: “I first met him when I was working at battle hospital. He was a very lovely kind man will be missed by many. R.I.P Peter – thoughts and love to his family at this sad time.”
RIP Dr Peter Tun MBBS MRCP.
— Jonathan Mamo (@JonathanMamo) April 14, 2020
A father, a mentor, a colleague and a friend. I will miss you in the office and in clinic. I will miss our chats about kids and holiday plans. RIP my friend. pic.twitter.com/0ZS4osIYhh
Michele Holt said: “Heart breaking news about Peter. He was an amazing doctor and fantastic man. He always had time for everyone. R.I.P Peter, the RBH has lost a great doctor.”
Michael Chilvers said: “So sad. Such a lovely man – he helped my dad after a brain injury. If it wasn’t for Dr Tun my dad wouldn’t be where he is today.”
Sandra Buckley said: “Rest in peace Peter Tun. Thank you for all what you did for my late husband. “God rest your soul.”
Dr. Peter Tun he was my Neru consultant for many years, he was more than my Physician he became a good friend to me, I was very shocked and sorrowful to hear the sad news. May he rest in peace.
— Keyvan (@Keyvan37499612) April 15, 2020
Wail Ahmed said: “My condolences on our friend Dr Peter Tun, a great colleague, human being and mentor.
“I learnt a lot from Peter about life, humanity as well as the field of Neurological Rehabilitation. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
“May his soul rest in peace.”
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Ruth Davis said: “Much love to you and your family Michael. He was such a lovely presence in the hospital, always kind and caring and happy to stop and chat. He will be very much missed.”
Professor Christine Collin, who worked alongside Dr Tun at the hospital for 12 years, called him an “unfailingly kind, caring and gentle” man who was “much loved and respected” by both patients and colleagues.
She added: “Peter had the necessary compassion, respect and knowledge to help support the clinical needs of people with severe neurological disability, and had the useful attribute of always presenting a smiling face to the world.
“His family were his main joy in life, but he was also a talented artist, and could produce beautiful watercolours of his homeland.”
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