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“This is a tremendous loss for our country and society,” said the presidential telegram to Svyatoslav Fyodorov’s widow. “People throughout Russia knew and loved him and trusted his views and opinions. He was not only a scientist and a surgeon who gave people their eyesight back. Svyatoslav Fyodorov was also a true trailblazer who made a powerful breakthrough in medicine. This is something that only a determined and courageous man can do, a real man. You and him became a common sight, so deep were the feelings that tied your family. Your pain is impossible to measure today. Please convey my sincere condolences to your children.”

Mr Putin also sent a telegram to the staff of the Eye Microsurgery Centre, which said, in particular:

“The name of Svyatoslav Fyodorov was known all over Russia. His prestige was enormous. People had faith in him as a doctor and a personality.

“A true reformer, he was able to overwhelm the inertia of the bureaucratic machine and introduce new approaches to healthcare. Svyatoslav Fyodorov was a gifted scientist and surgeon. Hundreds of thousands of people to whom he and his followers restored eyesight are mourning him today together with you.

“His thoughts and concerns were about Russia. He was a true citizen and patriot of his country.

“Svyatoslav Fyodorov will forever remain in our hearts.”