Cardiologist dies after tragic accident—remembered as a ‘truly remarkable physician’
Robert Sapsford, MBBS, BSc, MD, FRCP, a veteran cardiologist in West Yorkshire, England, has died after being hit by a van while riding his bicycle. He was 59 years old.
Sapsford treated heart patients at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust for three decades. A statement from the hospital called him a “truly remarkable physician.”
“His knowledge and commitment to his specialty was unequalled, becoming the go-to source of advice for even the rarest clinical conditions,” according to the statement. “Rob will be remembered for all of these things, but also for his love of coffee, biscuits and chocolate tiffin—which he would always share!”
“Rob has been such an important part of our team at Leeds for nearly 30 years, and his loss will be felt throughout his team and the wider organization,” added Dr. Magnus Harrison, chief medical officer at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. “We will remember Rob for his kindness, his calm manner and his immense dedication to his patients. Our thoughts are with Rob’s wife, his children, family and friends, and our colleagues who have enjoyed working with him for very many years.”
According to an early report from LeedsLive, Sapsford was on a morning bicycle ride on Monday, Sept. 16, when the van hit him. The van’s driver was arrested at the time “on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving,” but he is no longer under custody. Police is seeking information on the incident, requesting that any witnesses come forward.
Sapsford was a consultant cardiologist at Leeds General Infirmary. He had special interest in secondary prevention treatments, risk assessment and heart failure. He began practicing in 1990. He was a member of the British Medical Association, Medical Defence Union and the British Cardiac Society.
Michael has more than 16 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.