It is heartbreaking that Kome has died. My thoughts every day are with her husband and family and all those who loved her. I am so deeply sorry.

Kome and I were the first cohort of Wellcome Trust Doctoral Fellows, starting our DPhils at the same time and sharing an office in Gibson. I loved working by her side. Her presence uplifting and calm. We supported each other a lot in those early days. We spent time outside of work together too, I loved her company. I remember how she smiled whenever she talked about Ivie and all her family.

Kome was an absolutely formidable researcher. Dedicated to primary care and always motivated to have a meaningful impact on patient care which she absolutely achieved. She was incredibly committed, hard working and determined to make the most of the opportunities available. Within a few weeks of our fellowship starting she was working out how many international conferences she could get to. I’m so glad that she had those adventures. 

We never worked together clinically but she organised a peer learning group for GP colleagues and it was clear from these conversations how compassionate she was about her patients and providing high quality, evidence based care.

Kome cared hugely about others and was immensely thoughtful. She was the loveliest person. I remember, after one difficult day at work, she sent such a kind and encouraging message which was exactly the sort of thing that she would do. 

I hope that her family can feel immensely proud of who she was and the huge difference that she made. 

I vow to channel her dedication, commitment and academic rigour into future projects and will forever cherish the memories I have of working by her side.