Dr Magda Smith has passed away
It is with great sadness that we share the news that Magda Smith, our former group deputy chief medical officer, has passed away after a long illness. She was at home surrounded by family, and died peacefully.
Magda was an inspiring leader and valued colleague and she will be remembered with great affection by many people across our organisation.
Sanjiv Sharma, our chief medical officer, said: “She was a wonderful woman - kind, compassionate and supportive, and loved by many. She was also a passionate custodian of clinical safety and left us with a strong and lasting legacy.”
Magda joined us in 2022 after serving for over 25 years with Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, where she was chief medical officer. She continued to practice as a consultant gastroenterologist and was a key figure in fostering closer collaboration between our two trusts.
Alistair Chesser, our former chief medical officer, said: ”Magda provided superb leadership during the pandemic, when her calmness and expertise were vital in helping her Trust and its patients and staff through that difficult time.
“We were so fortunate that when she stepped down from BHRUT she chose a busy and demanding job at Barts Health as her last NHS role before retiring. She brought experience and gravitas, along with an endless supply of patience, optimism, energy and hard work. She chaired countless committees, provided wise advice to all who worked with her, and was a pillar of support to her peers.
“No one will be more grateful than me. She was unfailingly supportive, always went the extra mile, and she deeply cared about everyone she worked with. I learned so much from working alongside her and it was a privilege to do so. My thoughts are with her family at this time, and I know many others in the Trust will also be wishing them well, with our thanks and gratitude.”
Magda’s warmth and compassion shone through in dealing with patients and staff alike. She loved her job, and it was with great reluctance that she took early retirement just over a year ago as her illness made it difficult for her to continue working.
Our thoughts are with her family, friends and close colleagues at this difficult time. We will circulate information about the funeral in due course.