…By Alan Peterson for TDPel Media.
Marian Gonzaga Tumamak, a beloved nurse known for her kindness and infectious laughter, has passed away at the age of 46.
Marian worked as an intensive therapy unit (ITU) nurse at Morriston Hospital in Swansea for 19 years before her tragic death from a brain haemorrhage.
Her family is now raising funds to fulfill Marian’s final wish of being buried alongside her father in the Philippines.
Marian’s daughter, Kyrsten, described her mother as a mentor to younger nurses and the life of the party.
Marian was known for her jokes and outgoing nature, making her beloved by everyone.
Kyrsten also emphasized that Marian was an exceptional mother.
Marian and her husband, Lui, moved to Swansea from the Philippines to create a better life for their family.
They settled in Cwmdu and had two daughters, Kyrsten (21) and Megan (13).
Despite living in Wales, Marian never forgot her five sisters and their families back in the Philippines, regularly sending them clothes and food.
Marian was a heart patient and couldn’t work during the COVID-19 pandemic due to her vulnerability to the virus.
Kyrsten mentioned that her mother missed work during that time and wanted to support the NHS and her hardworking colleagues.
Although Marian’s heart condition didn’t significantly affect her daily life, she recently experienced increased breathlessness.
Doctors recommended open-heart surgery to extend her life expectancy.
She underwent the operation in February at Morriston Hospital and initially seemed to be recovering well.
However, in early April, Marian suffered a stomach bleed and required surgery and blood transfusions.
She was discharged and appeared to be regaining her health, even being able to drive and go shopping alone.
During this time, Kyrsten, who was studying law in London, spent two joyful weeks with her mother, enjoying brunch and sharing gifts.
Tragically, on May 8, Marian suddenly lost consciousness due to massive bleeding in her brain.
She underwent emergency surgery but passed away on May 16 at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.
Kyrsten expressed her gratitude for being able to spend time with her mother during her final moments.
The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover the costs of repatriating Marian’s body to the Philippines and arranging her funeral.
They have received significant support, and donations continue to pour in from friends, colleagues, and strangers touched by Marian’s warm spirit.
Marian Gonzaga Tumamak will be remembered for her compassionate nature and the positive impact she had on the lives of her patients, colleagues, and loved ones.