David Deutchman, perhaps better known as “ICU Grandpa”, passed away on Saturday after a battle with an untreatable cancer.
As per reports, Deutchman, who rose to internet fame when his heartwarming exploits came to light back in 2017, had been a volunteer at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta since his retirement in 2005.
There, he spent every Tuesday in the PICU and every Thursday in the NICU, holding tiny babies in his arms and comforting them when their parents could not.
Sadly, it was reported just last week that he was suffering from stage IV metastatic pancreatic cancer. It was also made known that his cancer was untreatable.
As per new, saddening reports, David passed away this weekend.
“It is with our deepest sadness that my sister Jill and I share that our sweet father David Deutchman passed away at home Saturday afternoon, 17 days after being diagnosed with metastatic Stage IV Pancreatic cancer,” Susan Lilly wrote on social media.
“Mom, Jill and I were by his side. We all already miss him terribly and always will.”
Children’s hospital last week organized a drive-by parade outside David’s home for the “hospital legend.”
A procession of almost 30 cars – some carrying patients who had been held by Deutchman many years ago — paid tribute to the dying man as his family gathered in their driveway. A Children’s transport helicopter then also circled over his home.
This great man will undoubtedly be missed by all who knew him.
Rest in peace, David Deutchman, and thank you for all the compassionate work you were able to do.
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