Hero St Cross nurse who died of suspected Covid-19 was 'selfless until the very end'

Sister Leilani had served the NHS for 16 years
Sister Leilani Dayrit.Sister Leilani Dayrit.
Sister Leilani Dayrit.

Tributes have come from across the country following the sudden death of Sister Leilani Dayrit, a clinical nurse sister at Rugby's St Cross.

Leilani Dayrit died of suspected Covid-19 on Tuesday, April 7, after giving 16 years of service to the NHS.

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In a fundraiser set up to help the nurse's family, Araial Ilustre said: "Her sudden tragic passing left behind her loving husband and her most beautiful legacy, her daughter.

"She is a ray of sunshine to those people who were fortunate to meet her.

"Her beautiful smile mirrors her beautiful heart full of love. Her strong will power to surpass any trial in life and her optimism resonates to everyone."

An affectionate and caring person, she was nicknamed 'Mummy Lei' by the children of her friends.

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Leilani was one of eight children who grew up in Vigan City in the Philippines.

In her younger days, she was a youth community leader, a member or a performance art club, a hard-working student and a beauty queen.

She finished her nursing degree at the University of Northern Philippines, later serving as a nurse in the NHS for 16 years.

The fundraising page (which can be found at bit.ly/3b6nrRx) has so far raised £11,540 for Leilani's family, with people from across the country writing heartfelt tributes as they donate.

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Leilani's daughter said: "My mother was a compassionate woman who always put other people’s happiness and wellbeing before her own.

"She was a very hardworking and dedicated nurse who loved to look after others and because of this she was known as the ‘mother figure’ to numerous family friends.

"She was a perfect example of an optimist who kept looking on the bright side of things and encouraged everyone to do the same.

"My mum was selfless until the very end and made sure to spread joy, happiness and love to anyone that ever needed it.

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"A truly special and beautiful person inside and out; I am truly blessed to have called her my mother and words cannot express how glad I am to see and hear that she was loved by a lot of people.

"I am overwhelmed by the heartwarming responses and messages that have been sent and I am sure she would have equally been touched by all your kind words and support.

"Although I wish that she could have stayed with us for longer, I hope that her soul is at peace and will always watch and guide over me and family/friends in heaven.

"I miss you and I love you very much."

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