'Valued' NHS worker dies from Covid-19 at Blackpool Victoria Hospital

Eleuterio ‘Boy’ Gibela worked at the Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for almost 20 years.

He died at the age of 68 on May 2, leaving behind his wife Deborah and two daughters Louella Anne and Kristiana.

Kevin McGee, Chief Executive, Blackpool Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said: "It is with deep regret and huge sadness that I share with you the devastating news that we have lost a friend and colleague to the terrible Covid-19 virus.

"Eleuterio was a valued, well respected member of the team who will be greatly missed by all of us and we send our heartfelt condolences to his wife Deborah and daughters Louella Anne and Kristiana.

"This is a terrible and poignant reminder of the situation we are facing every day to help others and I want to thank every member our staff for their continued care for our patients and community. Their continued courage and commitment to duty is inspirational and a comfort to us all in these difficult times."

A message on behalf of the Critical Care team at the Trust who cared for Eleuterio, said: “It was a privilege to care for ‘Boy’ in his final weeks of life. We mourn his loss; he was one of our own.

"Sending our deepest condolences to you all in this time of grief. You are in our thoughts and prayers.”

More than £4,605 has been donated to a fundraising appeal set up by friends and colleagues to help his family.

To make a donation to the fundraiser, visit the GoFundMe page by clicking HERE.

Russell Blake, Managing Director, Hospitals and Senior Living for Medirest, said: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Eleuterio ‘Boy’ Gibela.

"He was highly valued and respected member of our team.

"Eleuterio showed great dedication to his job and he will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this time."

Beverley Thistlethwaite, Contracts Manager for Medirest, and a colleague, added: "The loss of Eleuterio Gibela has touched us all deeply, he will be sorely missed by all of his colleagues. He was a true gentleman, always smiling and happy and was dedicated to doing his duties.

"He often brought us in homemade snacks giving us a little taste of the Philippines cuisine and when he visited his home country, he brought little souvenirs back for the office team.

"To lose one of our own team is incredibly hard but we all feel very privileged to of known him, heaven has certainly gained a very special angel."

A book of condolence has been placed in the chaplaincy at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

To access an online version, click HERE.