The Manitoba Nurses Union would like to express deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of nurse Kim Kotelo, who passed away due to COVID-19 in April at the young age of 26.
Kim earned her Bachelor of Nursing degree at Red River College and worked at the Health Sciences Centre in acute care. Her mother Eleanor said in an interview with the Winnipeg Free Press that Kim was a natural at nursing because of her caring nature and that she often skipped lunch and dinner to sit with patients, some of whom were dying.
Kim was dedicated to her profession and we deeply mourn her loss.
Health care workers across the world have been on the frontlines of the pandemic bravely caring for patients, but also putting themselves at risk of infection.
The loss of a Manitoba nurse, one of our own, is a stark reminder of the risks and continuing sacrifice.
We honour the life of Kim Kotelo and we honour the lives of those health care workers in Canada and around the globe who have died from COVID-19.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to all families and individuals who have lost loved ones as a result of this pandemic.