Brazilian influencer and entrepreneur Ricardo Godoi, 45, passed away during preparations for a massive back tattoo under general anesthesia. The incident occurred at Dia Revitalite Hospital in Itapema, Santa Catarina, where doctors were unable to revive him after he went into cardiac arrest.
Ricardo, a renowned figure in luxury sports car sales and CEO of Godoi Premium Group, had shared his anticipation for the procedure with his 200,000 Instagram followers shortly before the operation. “I’m about to undergo a surgical procedure and will only be back here after 4 pm,” he wrote. Tragically, those would be his final words to his fans.
The owner of the tattoo studio, which was set to perform the intricate procedure, explained the series of events. “At the beginning of the sedation and intubation, he went into cardiac arrest. This happened before the tattooing even began. Despite immediate medical attention and the presence of a cardiologist, he could not be revived,” the statement read.
To ensure safety, the tattoo studio had hired a private hospital equipped with advanced facilities and staffed by experienced professionals, including an anesthesiologist. Ricardo had undergone pre-procedure blood tests that indicated no explicit risks, and he had signed a consent form acknowledging the potential dangers.
A statement from his family posted on Instagram announced the heartbreaking news: “It is with great regret that we inform you about the death of Ricardo Godoi yesterday at midday. At this painful moment, we show solidarity with his friends and family, wishing them strength and comfort to overcome this unbearable loss.”
Tributes poured in, with many remembering Ricardo’s vibrant personality and generosity. One heartfelt message read, “Today we say goodbye to Ricardo Godoi, an incredible person who left his mark on the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His joy and light will remain in our memories.”
Ricardo’s untimely death leaves a void not only in his family but also in the lives of his fans and business associates. He is survived by his wife, Rafaela Gastaldi, and their young son, whom he lovingly celebrated in a recent social media post.
The tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the risks involved in medical and cosmetic procedures, even under seemingly optimal conditions.