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A FRONTLINE nurse died in the same hospital where she cared “relentlessly” for coronavirus patients.
Mahadaye Jagroop – known as Mary – died at Birmingham’s Heartlands hospital aged 66.
Mary spent her working life in her “dream job” having joined the profession at the age of 18.
She self-isolated at home after falling ill before being admitted to hospital.
Colleagues described her as a “beautiful” and “respected” member of the team.
Suzette Smith, a colleague at Birmingham’s Heartlands Hospital, 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 softly-spoken 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.”
Lisa Stalley-Green, chief nurse at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, added: “She touched the lives of many in her distinguished career.”
Scores of tributes to Mary were also paid 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.”
We are urging Sun readers to sign a petition calling for our NHS staff to be awarded the George Cross.
We are backing a proposal by Lord Ashcroft to honour our health heroes with the gallantry gong given for acts of bravery that did not take place in battle.
A No10 spokesman said: “The NHS is doing a fantastic job and the nation will want to find a way to say thank you when we have defeated this virus.” SAS hero Andy McNab added: “The award of a George Cross would show an emotional appreciation.”
We are asking our readers to please sign the petition below.