There isn't a better example of a doctor delivering care with compassion, we reckon, than Dr Sanjay Kumar.

Dr Kumar was nominated by Kerry Getliffe who works in theatres as she was so overwhelmed by the utter loveliness and kindness Dr Kumar showed to her father, pictured centre, who has incurable lung cancer.

Kerry - an Operating Department Practitioner in Day Surgery at HRI - was desperate her father would be well enough to attend the Star Award.

And she got her wish as last Friday when they handed the certifcate themselves to respiratory consultant Dr Kumar on Ward 2A at CRH.

Kerry, left, nominated him because she didn't want his very special compassionate qualities to go unnoticed at such a very sad time for her family.

She sent in this moving account as his Star Award nomination, writing:

"Dr Kumar gave my father the terrible news that he had incurable lung cancer. Throughout the whole meeting  - and previous meetings Dr Kumar - held my father’s hand, looked him in the eyes and spoke gently and clearly.

"He waited after each sentence to check that my father was taking in all of the information and advised my father on the best course of action.

"I work in theatres and have seen many great doctors and consultants however Dr Kumar showed so much compassionate care and kindness that I felt this couldn't go un-recognised."

Dr Kumar said:  " First,  I would like to say thank you to the family and patient for appreciating my way." I simply try  to anticipate and understand the feeling and emotions of a patient while communicating difficult subjects and convey the information in a similar way I would like for myself. Being honest, keeping content more individualised, offering support with genuine hope are other key principles I follow."

Our CEO, Owen Williams, stepped back for the very moving ceremony. He said: “ It has been my real pleasure to present Star Awards to CHFT colleagues  every month for the past three years. Each time a  different star is recognised for being both a joy to work with and for excelling at helping CHFT provide compassionate care for our patients here at CHFT.

“ The nomination for Dr Kumar in such very difficult circumstances was very, very touching to hear. It was a privilege for me to stand back and watch this time and let the family make this most moving  and very well-deserved presentation.”