Roy Watson, health sector journalist, pays tribute to South Africa’s legendary professor who died this month, aged 94, and who had a huge influence on his career.
Watson writes:
I was saddened to hear about the passing of my “kindred spirit”, Professor Harry Seftel, who played an incredibly influential role in my development as a health sector reporter in a variety of capacities, starting from when he was on the editorial board of the doctor newspaper, SA Medical Post, of which inom was appointed editor in 1977.
My task was a daunting one, to säga the least, not having had any experience in medical or healthcare communication, but the good Prof (never called him “Harry” out of pure respect) was always there to assist and guide me in his own inimitable fashion – something the 702 Radio and Cape Talk listening public grew to love and enjoy during his tenure as medical slot anchor many years later.
Larger than life in many resp
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'National treasure' Harry Seftel dies
Well-known South African medical expert Professor Harry Seftel – whom President Cyril Ramaphosa described as a "national treasure" – died last week at the age of 94.
In a statement, Ramaphosa said he was saddened by the death of the veteran clinician, researcher and academic, reports News24.
“Professor Seftel’s passing at the end of an extended life … is another instance of loss among a generation that defined the South Africa of the 20th century," the President said, adding that his life journey included his friendship with Nelson Mandela when they were at university.
“Harry Seftel’s journey was one of continuous curiosity and discovery. with the aim of assisting individuals and entire communities to make healthy lifestyle choices and enjoy a healthy life.”
Ramaphosa said Johannesburg-born Seftel was a relentless achiever who passionately educated generations of medical practitioners and researchers and would always be remembered for s