The rescue operation of 12 boys and their coach from the Tham Luang caves was grabbing all eyeballs. World over prayers was offered to the well-being of the group as they made way out of the complex caves with the help of several international officers and professional divers. But Dr. Richard Harris, who was responsible for checking upon the health condition of these boys, has another harrowing experience to deal with- his father's demise. The anaesthetist is grieving the death of his father, which occurred just after the team had finished with the rescue operation.

Richard Harris was apparently the last person to step out of the caves after the successful rescue of all the boys. He was requested by the experts to be a part of this high-grade mission, and the renowned diver could not refuse. He had a task to give the medical all-clear for each evacuation and also decided the order of the boys to go out. He also boosted the morale of these boys and appreciated their strength, but now Harry himself needs more strength as he goes through a personal loss. Ex-Navy SEAL Diver Dies Due to Lack of Oxygen in Cave.

This week has been full of 'highs and lows' for the diver. His father James (Jim) Harris, was a renowned former vascular surgeon and senior consultant at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. He passed away just as the team was on their way out after the success. So while everyone was cheering for the return of all the boys, Harry could not join in the same sentiment. While the diver has refused to comment and asked for privacy, his boss stated to the media. Andrew Pearce, his boss, was quoted, "It is with great sadness that I confirm that Harry’s dad passed away last night a short time after the successful rescue operation in Thailand. I have spoken with Harry. This is a time of grief for the Harris family, magnified by the physical and emotional demands of being part of this week’s highly complex and ultimately successful rescue operation." Thai Cave Rescue: Coach Ekapol Chanthawong Who Was A Buddhist Monk Kept The Boys Going With Meditation.

Harris was supposedly going on a holiday which he had to cancel, due to his requirement at the mission. He jetted to the spot to offer expertise and dived in with other professionals to rescue to the trapped boys. Unfortunately, it was not an entirely happy ending for him. While we pray for the good health for the boys, we also hope Harris finds his strength and emerges strongly from this significant loss.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 11, 2018 03:06 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).