READY FOR SERVICE. Kenneth Lambatan, a Xavier Ateneo nursing alumni (batch 2007), during the investiture rites. Photo provided by Ezel Lambatan. 

Kenneth Lambatan, a Xavier Ateneo nursing alumni (batch 2007), passed away on the night of April 27 at St George’s Hospital, United Kingdom. He is one of the many frontline health workers around the world to have lost their lives from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Kenneth told his family that he was experiencing the symptoms of the disease more than a week after his assignment. Days after, the family learned about his condition from a close colleague. He had to be intubated and placed in the intensive care unit.

“For 18 days, he fought the greatest battle we could ever imagine” shared Ezel.

Their mother, Ludivina, read the Bible and sang gospel songs moments before Kenneth was taken off life support. Kenneth was only 33 years old when he was taken off life support with his family virtually beside him

He is survived by his parents, Joy (older sister), Ezel (younger brother), nephews, and niece.

A Loving Son and Sibling 

Kenneth’s journey is detailed in a Facebook post by his brother, Ezel Lambatan. Born second of three children, Kenneth was a bright boy with big dreams.

Ezel recalls how Kenneth, his ‘hero’, chose to take up nursing to please their mother. To help the family, Kenneth “made sure that Mama wouldn’t have the difficulty of sustaining him by securing a scholarship for 2 years.”

Seeking greener pastures, Kenneth was overjoyed when his visa to work in London was approved. He was able to support the education of his niece aside from providing for his family.

A Committed Health Worker

Kenneth was a dedicated public servant in Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) for eight years before becoming a cardiac research nurse at St George’s Hospital.

It was not a surprise that he is among those brave enough to respond to the call of healthcare frontliners in St George’s Hospital. Though his family was apprehensive, Kenneth heeded the nurses’ oath until his last breath.

In a post on their official Facebook page, the Xavier University Council of Nursing Students (XUCN) remember their fallen alumni.

Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan extends her heartfelt prayers and condolences to Kenneth and his loved ones. May his soul rest in peace as we hope for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.∎

LIFE WELL LIVED. Via Salinasal, one of Kenneth’s closest colleagues, bids farewell to him in a Facebook post. Photo by Via Salinasal and provided by Ezel Lambatan.

For donations to the bereaved family, click here. 
For a comprehensive report by Rappler, click here.