Thousands attend first death anniversary of Dr Riaz Afridi

PESHAWAR: A year has passed since the untimely passing of Dr Mohammad Riaz Afridi, but his memories continue to live on in the hearts and minds of his family, friends, patients and community.

On Sunday his loved ones gathered in solemn remembrance to mark his first death anniversary, offer prayers and charity in his name at the family hujra in Haji Mohammad Noor Killey near Zangali Nehr on the Kohat Road.

Dr Riaz, who passed away on April 13, 2024, at the age of 54, left behind far more than professional accolades.He left behind a legacy of compassion, service and humility that touched thousands. As an accomplished orthopedic surgeon, he was known not only for his medical skill but for his extraordinary kindness - a man who believed that healing extended beyond the body to the soul.

His passing was a blow to his family, particularly to his father, a renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr Lal Noor Afridi, a recipient of the Presidential Award for his contributions to serve the people of terrorism affected Swat district during the military operation and militancy wave in 2009 and onward.

Not a single day has passed without tears for Dr Lal Noor Afridi, visibly shaken during the prayers. A few days back, on Eid in a moment of grief while remembering his son, he fell and fractured his hand, which was an emotional reminder of how deeply the pain lingers for him. On his first anniversary, thousands turned out to participate in the charitable meal and special prayer service (Khiarat and dua).

From treating patients free of charge to bringing joy to younger and comfort to the elderly, Dr. Riaz’s acts of generosity were as frequent as they were heartfelt. He believed in the dignity of every human being and treated each patient - rich or poor - with equal care and respect. “He was the kind of doctor who made you feel seen, heard and safe,” recalled a former patient.

His commitment to community health was part of a greater family vision. Alongside his uncle, Dr. Shehzad Noor and under the guidance of his father, Dr. Riaz helped transform a state-of-the-art orthopedic hospital in Swat into a symbol of hope, especially in a region that had once been scarred by militancy. Together, the trio worked tirelessly in the operating theater - three generations united by a mission to heal.

Now, without Dr. Riaz, the work feels heavier. His absence is felt deeply by his uncle, siblings, including Dr Tariq Afridi and Dr. Imtiaz Afridi and his cousin Javed Afridi, all of whom shared not just family ties but lifelong friendships with him.

His passing has left a particularly profound impact on his four children - Jahanzeb Afridi, Dr. Fawad, and their two sisters. As they move forward in life without their father’s presence, they carry with them the values he instilled - humility, service and compassion.

“Dr Riaz’s wealth was not in possessions, but in the love he gave, the lives he healed and the hope he spread,” said a close family member during the tribute. Indeed, though material success marked his career, it was his boundless generosity that defined him.

In a world often in need of heroes, Dr. Mohammad Riaz stood quietly but firmly as one - a man who used his skills not for glory but for good. In doing so, he left behind an abundance of sweet memories.