I met Mr Ratnakumar, Ratna, when due to illness my orthopaedic surgeon was unable to carry out what I imagined would be my final 2 knee revision/replacements. I was honoured and grateful when Ratna offered to take over my care. From the very beginning I adored this gentle caring man whose beautiful nature shone from his wonderful smile. After a trouble free first knee procedure I was unlucky enough to develop complications with the second. Ratna was there for me constantly visiting, directing my care with tenderness and sharing sorrow as my condition deteriorated. I adored this wonderful man who was worshipped and admired by everyone, especially his young trainees and students- but even more by his colleagues and members of the team. It is a terrible loss. I am devastated never to wake up and see him standing by my bed radiating encouragement and hope. His legacy is living on in the devotion and skill he has bequeathed to the trauma department a. nd the literally hundreds of young doctors and surgeons he has mentored and inspired. Thank you Ratna. I will never forget you and I will always be grateful for the beauty of our very short friendship.