Venkat Raman
Auckland, May 15, 2025
It is with immense sorrow that we mourn the passing of Dr Parma Nand, a distinguished cardiothoracic surgeon whose dedication to medicine and humanitarian service has left an unforgettable mark on the lives of many.
Dr Parma Nand passed away on May 4, 2025 in Auckland. His sudden passing has deeply affected the medical community and those who benefited from his expertise and humanitarian efforts. He reminded us of the profound impact he had on those around him. Through his tireless commitment to healing and his unwavering devotion to service, Dr Nand’s legacy will endure, inspiring future generations of medical professionals and communities alike.
An impressive journey
Born in Labasa, Fiji, Dr Nand’s journey into medicine was fuelled by a desire to serve, heal and uplift those in need. He pursued his medical degree at the University of the South Pacific in collaboration with Sydney University, equipping himself with the knowledge and expertise required for a career in specialised surgery. His passion for excellence led him to further his training at some of the world’s most renowned institutions, including Freeman Hospital in the United Kingdom, Toronto General Hospital in Canada, and Westmead Hospital in Australia. These experiences shaped him into an adult cardiac and thoracic surgeon expert, cementing his reputation as a leading figure in the field.
Based in Auckland, Dr Nand held appointments at Auckland City Hospital, Mercy Specialists Centre and Allevia Hospital, where he performed intricate procedures ranging from coronary artery bypass surgery to mitral and aortic valve repairs. His expertise extended to minimally invasive lung surgeries, complex chest deformity corrections and advanced cardiac device implantations. His deep understanding of aortic surgery, including valve-sparing root replacements and aortic arch procedures, demonstrated his mastery and precision as a surgeon. Patients under his care received not only world-class surgical treatment but also a compassionate approach that placed their well-being at the forefront.
Humanitarian Efforts
While his clinical practice was remarkable, Dr Nand’s humanitarian efforts defined him as an extraordinary individual. Since 2006, he led mobile cardiac surgery teams on charity missions to Fiji and Samoa, providing life-saving procedures to individuals who lacked access to specialised healthcare. Through these initiatives, he performed valve surgeries, congenital heart repairs and pacemaker implantations, restoring hope and health to countless patients. His unwavering commitment to his homeland ensured that he remained closely connected to Fiji, making a significant contribution to the medical field and improving healthcare outcomes for those in need.
Friends of Fiji Heart Foundation
His dedication to service extended beyond the operating theatre. Through his involvement with the Friends of Fiji Heart Foundation, Dr Nand worked to provide essential cardiac care to underserved communities, ensuring that financial constraints did not prevent patients from receiving treatment. His generosity, coupled with his exceptional skill, made him a beacon of hope to many. His contributions to medical research, professional mentorship and ongoing education further solidified his role as an influential figure within the cardiothoracic surgical community.
Dr Nand’s passing is not only a loss to his family, friends and colleagues but also to the countless individuals whose lives he touched. His impact transcended borders, reminding us of all of the power of selflessness, dedication and kindness. He was a healer, a mentor and a visionary whose mission was to ensure that every patient he treated received the best possible care. His compassionate approach to medicine and his commitment to excellence will continue to influence future generations of surgeons who will carry his legacy forward.
As we reflect on his remarkable life, we honour the principles he stood for—humanity, integrity and a commitment to improving the world. His efforts in Fiji and Samoa changed lives, and his work in New Zealand brought comfort and healing to thousands. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on through the people he cared for, the surgeries he performed and the communities he uplifted.
Dr Nand was not just a surgeon; he was a guide, a protector and a true servant of humanity. His contributions will remain a testament to his lifelong mission of healing, ensuring that his name and his legacy are never forgotten.
Rest in peace, Dr Parma Nand. Your light will continue to shine in the lives you saved, the patients you comforted and the community that now honours your memory.
