Tributes have been paid to two “passionate” and “much-loved” nurses who have died while on holiday together in the United States.
Tatiana Brandão, 30, and Raquel Moreira, 28, who both worked at the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS), were reportedly killed during a vehicle collision near the Grand Canyon on 3 February.
“Both were passionate about nursing and providing the very best care for our patients”
Gail Byrne
In a statement, Gail Byrne, chief nursing officer at the trust, said the entire nursing family there had been left “shocked and saddened by the tragic deaths of two much-loved colleagues”.
Ms Brandão had joined the trust seven years ago and was a “highly respected” member of the neurology department, added Ms Byrne.
Meanwhile, Ms Moreira had worked at the trust for the past five years and was a “very valued part” of the stroke advanced clinical practitioner team.
The pair had moved from Portugal to join UHS and had “bright careers ahead of them”, said Ms Byrne.
“The friends were well-known for their kindness, empathy and enthusiasm,” she added.
“Both were passionate about nursing and providing the very best care for our patients.
“Outside of work they shared a love for new experiences, adventure and living life to the fullest.”
Ms Byrne sent her “love and condolences” to their families and added: “I know I speak on behalf of the entire UHS workforce in saying they will be sorely missed.”
