I am so sorry to hear from Dr Purvis about Richard.
We worked together at Poole about 20 years ago, Richard was a reg. at that time and I was a night sister. He was a such a wonderful character and a great paediatrician.
He must have found nights really difficult but we (the night staff) loved having him around and would often keep him chatting well into the early hours. He was always good with the children and I have fond memories of him trying to settle a sick little boy one night by singing to him. Im not sure the child recognised the tune (we didnt!) but it worked a treat.
We all shared some sad times with those very sick children that we looked after and some great times when Richards' sense of humour came to the fore.
Despite giving me advice against getting married, Richard carried out the baby check on my daughter. (I've since divorced so maybe I should have listened to him).
When Richard left Poole I lost track of him - but met him completely by surprise in a corridor at GOS where he was working and I was attending a course. After catching up on the gossip then, I didn't see him again until about 8 years ago at Poole. At that time I was going through a bit of a tough time and again he gave me his advice, which was to move to Dorchester. He was instrumental in the move and I have alot to thank him for.
I will always remember him for the Zappa type moustache, the huge white cadillac but most of all, for the warm gentle person that he was.
I can't imagine how you must be feeling right now, but I hope the happy memories you have of your time together will help you through the days ahead.
My thoughts are with you and his family at this time,

Gill