Abdul Sattar Edhi passed away on Friday after his prolonged fight with illness following kidney failure, said Dr Abhay, medical officer at Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT).

With over 1,800 vehicles, his Edhi Foundation holds the record for being the world’s largest volunteer ambulance organisation.

The philanthropist was brought to SIUT after he had trouble breathing and was subsequently put on ventilator.

“Edhi was admitted to the intensive care unit of SIUT after he had trouble breathing,” Faisal Edhi had earlier said while addressing a press conference..

Faisal and his mother Bilquis Edhi also asked the nation to pray for his well-being.

Earlier, Edhi Foundation spokesperson Anwar Kazmi confirmed that the social worker was re-admitted to Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT) after he started to have breathing problems.

“It’s the age factor combined with ill-health that’s creating a bit of a problem for him. His food intake had lessened too, before but it’s got a bit better today,” Kazmi added.

On the other hand Bilquis Edhi said, that the social worker-husband of hers wasn’t keeping too well. “His is the same old position that was before, nothing much has changed. However, when I met him today he was asking for forgiveness from me. I told him, ‘I forgive you a hundred times, but there have been days that I too have troubled you. So please forgive me also.”

On June 28, the social worker and noted personality underwent a successful surgery at the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT).

Edhi underwent a 20-minute minor catheter change procedure to clear his dialysis line, which was choked previously. He has been on dialysis since 2013.

The philanthropist was diagnosed with kidney failure in June 2013 and was told by doctors that he would have to be on dialysis for the rest of his life.

Earlier on June 12, Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif and his wife sent a bouquet and a card to Edhi, praying for him a healthy and peaceful life.

On June 10, Edhi declined an offer from former president Asif Ali Zardari to be flown abroad for medical treatment.

In the past, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and real estate tycoon Malik Riaz also offered to help Edhi in his treatment but he turned them down as well.

The renowned social worker is loved home and abroad with millions of Pakistanis praying for his health and speedy recovery.

PM wishes fast recovery to Edhi

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said he wishes that the notable philanthropist recovers from his illness soon, Express News reported.

In a statement on Friday, the premier said Abdul Sattar Edhi saved thousands of lives and has served humanity selflessly.