Dr. Sanket B. Patel, DO, a distinguished gastroenterologist based in Marlton, New Jersey, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a profound legacy of compassion, expertise, and dedication to his patients and community. His untimely death has deeply affected those who knew him, from his patients and colleagues to his family and friends.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Dr. Patel exhibited a strong inclination toward science and medicine from an early age. He pursued his medical degree at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, followed by a residency in internal medicine at Cooper University Hospital. Further honing his expertise, he completed fellowships in gastroenterology at the University of Connecticut and in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
Dr. Patel’s personal battle with IBD, which began at age 18 with a misdiagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome, profoundly influenced his medical career. After enduring years of debilitating symptoms, he was correctly diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. This experience inspired him to shift his academic focus from organic chemistry to medicine, aiming to prevent others from facing similar challenges .
As the director of the Virtua Crohn’s & Colitis Center in Moorestown, NJ, Dr. Patel was instrumental in establishing a comprehensive care model for IBD patients. The center offers integrated medical, nutritional, and emotional support, ensuring patients receive holistic care tailored to their needs.
Patients consistently praised Dr. Patel for his compassionate demeanor, thorough explanations, and unwavering commitment to their well-being. His colleagues admired his meticulous approach, collaborative spirit, and generosity in sharing knowledge. Beyond his clinical duties, Dr. Patel was deeply involved in his community, actively participating in cultural and spiritual events, and volunteering at local health fairs.
Dr. Patel is survived by his loving parents, siblings, and an extended family who cherished him deeply. A memorial service to honor his life and contributions will be held in Philadelphia, with details forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to organizations supporting medical outreach or digestive health research in his memory.
Dr. Sanket Patel’s legacy is one of empathy, excellence, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. His impact on the medical community and the countless individuals he cared for will be remembered and cherished.
