It’s rare to write a blog post like this one. Professor Dumbor Ngaage was a client of mine, and more than that, he was a genuinely remarkable man to know. He passed away recently, and I wanted to share something of who he was and what it meant to work with him.

Who he was

Dumbor spent almost 21 years as part of the cardiothoracic team at Hull University Teaching Hospitals, where his work spanned mitral valve surgery, coronary artery bypass, and minimally invasive cardiac procedures. He led a major research programme aimed at shortening recovery times after cardiac surgery, and his contribution to patient care was recognised with national and local clinical excellence awards. Beyond the operating theatre, he was a certified life coach and mentor, and he chaired the hospital’s Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff network, work that saw him recognised as a finalist for an outstanding contribution to diversity, equality and inclusion. Colleagues and patients alike describe a man of great calm, kindness, and quiet strength, someone who guided others through difficult times, professionally and personally, with dignity.

Working together

Dumbor came to me for support with his exercise programme as he lived with advanced illness, and what struck me most was his attitude. Sessions were built carefully around what his body could safely manage on any given day, but within that, he brought the same focus and steadiness that clearly defined the rest of his life. He approached his own care the way he approached everything else, thoughtfully, with resolve, and without complaint.

A final act of generosity

Even as his own sessions came to an end, Dumbor’s instinct was to think of someone else. He donated his remaining, unused sessions to another client of mine who had just completed a hundred rounds of chemotherapy. That client has stayed on with me since, and is thriving. It’s a small thing to write down but it says a great deal about the man, generous to the last, and thinking of others even in his own most difficult moments.

Karima

Dumbor’s wife, Karima, has continued to walk and hike since his passing.

Remembering Dumbor, and supporting others

A tribute page has been set up in Dumbor’s memory, where friends, colleagues, and former patients have been sharing photographs and stories, and where donations are being collected for Cancer Research UK: dumborngaage.muchloved.com

Separately, WISHH (Working Independently to Support Hull Hospitals) is fundraising to light up the grounds of the Queen’s Centre for Oncology at Castle Hill Hospital in time for Christmas 2026, bringing a bit of festive brightness to patients and staff there. You can support that campaign here: Light Up the Queen’s Centre

Rest in peace, Dumbor. You’ll be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing you.