A martial arts instructor from Dartford described as "full of kindness, generosity and smiles" and in "peak physical condition" has died after testing positive for Covid-19.
Rommel Bernarte, 49, was a black belt and a master in Tang Soo Do and had established training centres specialising in the Korean martial art across London and Kent.
The father-of-two from Dartford died on April 11 inside Darent Valley Hospital after a battle with coronavirus, just over 10 years after he received a life-saving liver transplant.
But his son, Ryan Bernarte, said following his passing, it still "fills us with such an enormous sense of pride the huge impact he has had, and will continue to have, on so many people's lives across the world.
"The Coronavirus is indeed infectious and it has robbed us of many more years with him… but in turn, it is evident how infectious our dad’s kindness, support, generosity and smile has been to the multitude."
The family are now trying to raise money split between Darent Valley Hospital and the Royal Free Hospital as a thank you for the support Rommereceiveded.
Ryan, 20, spoke of his shock at his father's passing despite being in "very physically fit," but also remarked how lucky they had all been to spend an additional 10 years with him.
Rommel received a liver transplant, "a second chance of life," and, helped by staff at the Royal Free Hospital who worked tirelessly to save him, was able to survive the treatment.
Ryan said: "Words cannot begin to describe how lucky we are to have been blessed with 10 additional years with him, and for these reasons we would like to offer our support by raising money for them."
The son also paid tribute to those at Darent Valley Hospital, especially within the Intensive Care Unit , after they "did everything in their power to keep him comfortable."
"We are incredibly indebted to those who helped our dad until his final moments, and we would like to support those working at the hospital."
The fundraiser currently stands at over £10,000, and will "enable both hospitals to continue their invaluable work in helping patients, just as they did so for our dad."
To donate to the cause, visit Ryan's GoFundMe page here.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here