As the COVID-19 death toll rises globally Guyana’s diaspora continues to be hard hit with in excess of 50 deaths linked to the virus having been reported. Two of the more recent deaths included IItab Hosein, 77 and George Watson, 83.
Both elderly men spent their last days hospitalised in Queens, New York and passed within two day of each other.
Hosein, a former resident of the Nabaclis and Enmore communities and the former Iman of Nootenzuil Masjid, was described as well loved.
His grand-daughter, Alliea Hosein, told Sunday Stabroek that on April 4 her grandfather complained of having chills and difficulty breathing.
The family contacted emergency services after checks indicated that his oxygen levels were extremely low. He was subsequently taken to the hospital, where he died the following day of a Cardiac Arrest while receiving treatment at the Queens General Hospital.
This newspaper was told Hosein, who tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, fought a short battle, due to underlying medical conditions.
The younger Hosein explained that her grandfather was a well-known and loved man. Before migrating 17 years ago, he held several positions, including that of a field foreman at the Enmore Sugar Estate and a former constable in the Guyana Police Force (GPF). As a member of the GPF, he was stationed at the home of the former Commissioner Laurie Lewis until his migration.
A devout Muslim, Hosein was said to be respected in his community, which he served as former Iman of Masjid Al Jama in Queens.
His granddaughter explained that he was an inspiring man who will forever be remembered for his good leadership.
Meanwhile, Watson, formerly of 54 Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice, died on April 3, days after he tested positive for COVID-19.
According to his daughter-in-law, Wendy Watson, he was ill with a fever and cough two weeks prior to his demise, but was sent home by two different hospitals. It was not until five days before his death, that he was tested for the virus by a third hospital.
He had been rushed there after his condition deteriorated.
The elder Watson migrated about 38 years ago to the United States, where he continued to practice his trade as a joiner.
According to his daughter-in-law, he was a very warm man who enjoyed spending time especially during the Christmas and Thanksgiving holidays with loved ones.
