A WARRINGTON head teacher has named an Alder Hey heart surgeon an ‘inspiration’ to future generations.

An eye-opening visit from Dr Ramana Dhannapuneni left students at St Gregory’s High School in complete awe.

The Great Sankey school had the pleasure of welcoming Dr Ram in for an afternoon, where they learnt of the amazing charity Healing Little Hearts, that he works for in his spare time.

Speaking on the visit, head teacher Ed McGlinchey, said: “Dr 'Ram' was in school to collect donations raised by the pupils of the school for Healing Little Hearts. 

“The pupils arranged a 'euros' day and a 'culture day' and raised £1400 in total for the charity.

“During his visit, Dr Ram was able to explain how the charity does its work and that the donation from St Gregory’s will pay for the heart surgeries of two children.”

The heart surgeon, who carries out vital surgeries at Liverpool-based children’s hospital Alder Hey, has a special link to head teacher Mr McGlinchey.

“Ram has performed two operations on my own daughter Zara, and he has a special place in my family's hearts too,” he explained.

As part of his work for Healing Little Hearts charity, Dr Ram performs heart surgery for free on children in third world countries.

During his visit to the school, he was able to explain more about the charity, as he received the school’s donation on behalf of the organisation.

He also took questions from pupils about his career path and the work he does at Alder Hey, which proved to be ‘invaluable career experience’ for the students.

Commenting on his visit, Dr Ram said: “I would like to thank the pupils of St Gregory's for raising this money for such an important cause, the money helps to save lives of children that do not have access to the NHS like we do in the UK.”

One St Gregory’s pupil spoke on the experience, adding: “It was fantastic to be able to meet a real heart surgeon in person, Ram is so humble about what he does and took the time to answer all of our questions.”

Meanwhile head teacher Ed said: “The work that Ram does at Alder Hey and through his charity work with Healing Little Hearts is remarkable. 

“Ram is an outstanding role model to young people about using your talents for good and he is now helping inspire a new generation.”