Kenneth Lambatan, a Xavier Ateneo nursing alumni (batch 2007), passed away Monday evening, April 27 at St George’s Hospital, United Kingdom, one of many frontline health workers worldwide to have lost their lives to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Kenneth previously informed his family he was experiencing symptoms of the disease over a week after his assignment. Days later, the family learned about his condition from a close colleague. He had to be intubated and placed in the intensive care unit.
Their mother, Ludivina, read the Bible and sang gospel songs moments before Kenneth was taken off life support with his family virtually beside him. He was 33 years old
He is survived by his parents, Joy (older sister), Ezel (younger brother), nephews, and niece.
“For 18 days, he fought the greatest battle we could ever imagine” shared Ezel.
A Loving Son and Sibling
Kenneth’s journey is detailed by his brother, Ezel Lambatan in this Facebook post . Born second of three children, Kenneth was a bright boy with big dreams.
Ezel recalls how Kenneth, his ‘hero’, chose to take up nursing to please their mother. To help the family, Kenneth “made sure that Mama wouldn’t have difficulty sustaining him by securing a scholarship for 2 years.”
Seeking greener pastures, Kenneth was overjoyed when his visa to work in London was approved. He was able to support the education of his niece aside from providing for his family.
A Committed Health Worker
Kenneth was a dedicated public servant in Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) for eight years before becoming a cardiac research nurse at St George’s Hospital.
So it was no surprise when he was among those brave enough to respond to the call of healthcare frontliners in St George’s Hospital. Though his family was apprehensive, Kenneth heeded the nurses’ oath to his last breath.
In a post on their official Facebook page, the Xavier University Council of Nursing Students (XUCN) remembers their fallen alumni.
Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan extends her heartfelt prayers and condolences to Kenneth and his loved ones. May his soul rest in peace as we hope for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.
