The Singapore General Hospital (SGH) recently posted a tribute on Facebook for one of their top surgeons who has passed away.

Pioneered new forms of surgery

The hospital's Head of Department of General Surgery, Dr Jeremy Ng, died on July 4.

He was 48 years old.

SGH described his sudden passing as one that happened "too soon".

According to The Straits Times, Ng collapsed while jogging at East Coast Park on Saturday, and suffered a cardiac arrest. He is survived by his wife and son.

As the head of his department, Ng contributed significantly to SGH's clinical care, and played an integral role in the formation of Acute Care Surgery, which involves trauma and emergency surgery.

The development of the service, SGH said, has help to reduce the morbidity, mortality, and length of stay of patients who require acute surgical care.

Ng made breakthroughs in thyroid surgery as well, coming up with new methods of surgery that were safer than conventional ways.

Passionate about his work

Ng was apparently "happiest in the operating theatre," and was extremely passionate about his work.

"Jeremy leaves his mark as an exemplary clinician, outstanding surgeon and unassuming leader. Jeremy was a wonderful friend and colleague to many of us. He always had a ready smile, a cheerful greeting and somehow made time for people. He will be remembered for his sincerity, personal warmth, humility and genuine kindness.

We have lost one of the finest sons of SGH. Let us take some time to remember Jeremy, our interactions with him and how he has touched our lives. In the midst of our deep sorrow, we draw strength from these memories, and draw close to support one another."

SGH sent their thoughts and prayers to Ng's family as well.

Numerous tributes on social media

Former colleagues and patients of Ng have since flooded SGH's post to share their condolences.

Others have posted tributes and shared personal anecdotes of their encounters with Ng on their own Facebook page.

Some remembered small gestures of him giving up his seat his colleagues.Others had experienced his work first-hand as patients.

"You're only in your 40s. I think. Not many know your age but you can pass off as a 30-something. You're really nice to everyone. And skilled. And so soooo humble. Head of General Surgery. Director for Trauma Services. It's amazing.

When I got back to work after cancer, you smiled and you noticed the scar on my neck. Your work. "The scar looks good, can barely see it". Indeed. Its insanely good work because I get really big keloids for all my other scars. The last time we spoke, you couldn't believe how much time has gone by and it was really good to see me back at work again, alive and well. The scar that you gave me, a constant reminder of how fragile and unpredictable life is."

You can read SGH's full tribute here.

Top photo from SGH and Noor Azlina on FB