Docs say he was a role model for many suffering from kidney disorders

Shammi Kapoor's death is just not a loss for the Indian film community, but also for the medical fraternity. The veteran actor played an important role in creating awareness of kidney disorders as he too was suffering from renal failure.

On Sunday morning, Shammi Kapoor breathed his last in the intensive care unit (ICU) of Breach Candy hospital. Kapoor was admitted to the hospital after he developed breathlessness and low blood pressure. On Friday his condition deteriorated, and he was put on a ventilator for support.

Kapoor was on dialysis for the last nine years. "He had developed cardiac complications along with the infection. He passed away on Sunday morning, " said Dr Bhupendra Gandhi, who was treating him.

Awe-inspiring

Though suffering from renal failures and undergoing dialysis at least thrice a week, Kapoor would never turn down a request when it came to attending any patient meets or programs to spread awareness on kidney disorders.

Dr Bharat Shah, nephrologist, Narmada Kidney foundation, said, "He was always associated with programmes on kidney disorders. He has attended our 'DONOR' day celebration and has been a role model for many patients who have not been able to find a donated or cadaver kidney and are on dialysis."