The wife of a hospital radiographer in Cumbria who died after being diagnosed with coronavirus has paid tribute to a “special true gentleman and a great role model.
Simon Guest worked at Furness General Hospital in Barrow. He died peacefully on Wednesday evening. The news was announced yesterday by the NHS trust that runs the hospital, which said that Mr Guest’s wife Nicky wanted to pay tribute to the staff at its intensive care unit.
Nicky said: “We are all overwhelmed with grief at the loss of our beloved Simon to Covid-19. Simon was special, a true gentleman and a great role model to all. He was a gentle soul and so very caring with both his patients and NHS colleagues.
“Simon worked tirelessly on the front line, always helping others, a dedicated professional in every sense of the word. Simon has trained and mentored many radiography students who have gone on to continue his good work in both UHMBT (University Hospitals Morecambe Bay Trust) and other hospitals. His students have described him as ‘patient, knowledgeable and non-judgemental. An amazing man who provided unconditional support to us all’.
“Simon had a fantastic sense of humour. His work ethic and personality were like sunshine and light even in the darkest of times.”
Rose Byron, lead radiographer for Furness General Hospital, added this tribute. “Outside of work, Simon was a devoted husband to Nicky. Simon was a modest man and would be stunned by the outpouring of grief and love being shown for him. The radiology department would like to thank everyone for all the love and support they are receiving from so many wonderful people. It was an honour and a privilege to have worked with him.
“He had a great passion for life and enjoyed motorbikes, nice cars, guitars and music. Simon will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. He is forever in our hearts… A True Hero.”
Aaron Cummins, chief executive of the hospital trust, added: “I know how respected Simon was and how truly missed he will be. We are all devastated by the news, and determined to support Simon’s family and friends and ensure his memory will live on.”
