Nurses deaths are too painful to bear

A NURSE still working at 66 who cared “relentlessly” for patients is among the latest heroes to perish.

Colleagues described Mahadaye Jagroop – known as Mary – as a “beautiful” and “respected” member of the team at Birmingham’s Heartlands Hospital.

Suzette Smith said: “Mary and I were colleagues for years. I can still remember our last conversation, which was full of laughter.

“Mary was a quiet and softlyspoken but a dedicated nurse who gave her all for her patients.

“She was one of the best warriors you could wish for in the fight against this deadly virus. Mary was respected and loved by all. She will be missed but not forgotten.”

Scores of tributes were paid to Mary online. Former colleague Thalia Zong wrote: “You and your beautiful smile, which has always inspired me, will continue to do so through these tough times.”

A second nurse,

Larni Zuniga, died at St Thomas’ Hospital in Central London.

The married dad, 54, originally from the Philippines, lived in Godalming, Surrey.

A fundraising appeal said: “He’s been working as a senior nurse in a care home in Surrey before he was stricken with the virus.”

His cousin Christian, an NHS theatre nurse, said: “Larni was a true professional, who touched the lives of many.”

“He made a tremendous difference to a lot of people’s lives and he was highly respected by patients and colleagues alike. God bless his soul.”

Larni’s wife Edith said: “He is now enjoying God and enjoying heaven. We love you so much.”

Their daughter Mutya added: “I just can’t stop crying. It’s too painful to bear.

“You touched the lives of the people around you and made us so proud. You are the best dad. Thank you for the sacrifices for our family.”