The Prime Minister has led the tributes to inspirational Huddersfield doctor Kate Granger.
Theresa May described Kate as making an immense contribution to the NHS.
And Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt tweeted: “So sad to hear of Kate Granger’s death. Her legacy promoting a more human touch & compassionate care will outlive us all.”
Kate, from Wellhouse near Golcar, who was terminally-ill, died on Saturday, surrounded by her loved ones, her husband Chris Pointon - who grew up in Mirfield - announced on social media.
Hours earlier Chris had tweeted: “Happy 11th wedding anniversary to my amazing & beautiful wife @GrangerKate .. I will always love you.”
Top politicians and health chiefs have paid glowing tributes.
NHS medical director Sir Bruce Keogh said: “Kate Granger was an inspiration to us all and her #hellomynameis campaign and the Compassionate Care Awards named after her will be her legacy to the NHS and a lasting tribute to her memory.”
Jane Cummings, Chief Nursing Officer for England, who became friends with Dr Granger and her husband as they worked on the campaign, said the doctor had a “massive impact” on people around her.
She said: “Her honesty, courage, grace and determination to share her experiences of living with a terminal illness and dying have enabled many to learn and speak openly about death and in particular, the need to improve communication and compassionate care.
“The #hellomynameis campaign and the Kate Granger Compassionate Care Awards are her legacy and Kate won’t be forgotten. The world, the NHS and the health and care system are a better place because of Kate.”
Kate’s “Hello, My Name Is ...” campaign was described as “inspirational” and won the backing of many politicians and celebrities.
She had the idea in 2013 while receiving treatment in hospital, when she said she made the “stark observation” that many staff did not introduce themselves to people before treating them.
Her campaign received support from Jeremy Hunt, Sir Bruce Keogh and former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson.
She achieved her goal of raising £250,000 for Yorkshire Cancer Centre just days before her death at the age of 34.
Dr Granger was admitted to St Gemma’s Hospice in Leeds early this month, having tweeted days earlier: “I’m suffering too much at the moment. It’s just day after day of endless pain. I just can’t take it.”
Following her death the hospice paid tribute, writing: “It was our privilege to care for Kate, Chris and their loved ones. You are in our thoughts.”
Dr Granger was diagnosed with cancer in 2011 but described herself as an optimist.
Speaking last year she said: “I really hope my legacy will be putting compassionate practice right at the heart of healthcare delivery every single day.”
Three days ago she thanked people for sending flowers and gifts but, after being inundated, asked them to donate to the hospice instead.
The couple, who lived in Wakefield, took part in fundraising efforts over the years, including the Leeds 10k last summer.
