NI nurses press phone to ear of dying man with COVID-19 to receive last rites from priest

Declan Grimes, a poultry farmer from the village of Carrickmore, Co. Tyrone passed away in the South West Acute Hospital in Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh on April 15, 2020.

Mr. Grimes was on ventilator in an Intensive Care Unit for almost a month when he died.

Mr. Grimes' widow, Sheila Grimes, who works at the South West Acute Hospital, paid tribute to her "beloved" husband.

"This is a message I never imagined I would have to write," said Mrs. Grimes.

"From the very bottom of my heart I want to thank each and every one who has helped Declan, myself and our family.

"As you all know my beloved Declan’s life was taken by COVID 19.

"I want to thank the medical and nursing staff of the South West Acute Hospital’s A/E Department, Ward 1 and most especially the staff of the ICU department - they truly are second to none.

"They kept us fully informed at all times, they prayed with us, they cried with us, they became Declan’s family as we could not be with him and they did everything humanly possible for Declan.

"Thanks to Fr O Neill for giving Declan the last rites(over the phone) and to the nurses who put the phone to Declan’s ear at that time and indeed at any time of the day or night."

Mrs. Grimes continued: "Thank you to An Charraig Mhór Naomh Colmcille GFC , Éire óg Hurling club Carrickmore, Pomeroy Plunketts GFC, Creggan Community Association, and Pomeroy Fire Brigade for their guards of honour and all the people who lined the roads for Declan’s homecoming and his burial I thank each and every one of you.

"In these times when we are not allowed a wake it was so uplifting to see you there.

"To each and every person who called to our window to offer help and support, telephoned, texted, sent Mass cards, brought food to our home, sent flowers, said prayers, sent good thoughts, got cures and gave cures - I thank you all.

"Thank you to Ryan Mc Callan (undertaker) for his kindness and professionalism and to Pedar Fox who drove Declan on his final journey."

Mrs. Grimes added: "Thank you also to the grave diggers who kindly gave us the time we needed after the ceremony to try and clear our heads.

"To my children, their wives, girlfriend ( and my wee grandchildren), you have been so strong and supportive throughout this, I love each and every one of you so much as did Declan, we will continue to help each other.

"When current restrictions are lifted we will have a mass to celebrate Declan’s life and please God we will see you there."

Mr. Grimes was laid to rest on April 16, 2020.