A father-of-three passed away only hours after taking a smiling selfie with his family in a hospital.

Jagadeesh Kowal went to Leicester Royal Infirmary due to backache, LeicestershireLive reported. His family and friends were left shocked and devastated when he suddenly died only hours after the photo was taken.

According to reports, Jagadeesh was diagnosed with a lung infection that had spread to his throat. He then went into cardiac arrest and died.

His best friend, Shimla Pinks Bobby Singh, said his devastated wife, two daughters, aged 7 and 17, and son, aged 11, are in ‘utter shock and disbelief.’

“After doing tests the doctors said it was a lung infection that had spread to his throat,” Bobby told LeicestershireLive.

“They told me he started coughing up blood and went into cardiac arrest. He died just hours later. We are all just heartbroken.”

“Jagadeesh was a wonderful friend, father, husband, brother who touched the lives of those around him,” Bobby added.

Jagadeesh’s sudden death left his heartbroken family in financial distress as he took care of their expenses. His wife doesn’t speak any English and couldn’t work while caring for their children.

“I feel like it is my responsibility to help them. I paid for their internet bill and brought them food but they really need more help,” Bobby said.

“One day they had a husband and father and the next day he was gone. I do not want the children to suffer – to not be able to eat or do activities.

“They have to be able to have lives of their own after this tragedy. I am so grateful to everyone who has donated so far. I can’t thank you enough. I just hope anyone that can, will help.”

Bobby also set up a GoFundMe page for the grieving wife and children. He wrote: “I have started a fundraiser to collect donations for Jagadeesh’s family who are in financial difficulties at the moment. Please consider donating, as any amount will truly help his family during this difficult time.”

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