RELATIVES and loved ones of Quinton Gabriel, 16, believe he died too soon but despite his short time on earth, they say he had a lasting impression on them.
The form four Siparia West Secondary School student is one of now four people to die from dengue since June. He died on July 16 at the Point Fortin Hospital after suffering from dengue fever for several days. He also had sickle cell disease.
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From early on in the funeral service at Boysie Boodoo Funeral Home and Crematorium, Penal, on July 20, it became evident that Gabriel lived a rich life that will not be easily forgotten.
"Quinton touched us in ways words can scarcely capture," his uncle Ricardo Hayes said in the eulogy.
"He lived with passion and purpose. He was a force of nature. His presence was a beacon of warmth and kindness. His infectious laugh will forever echo in our memories."
He recalled his nephew's ability to speak his mind which would often lead to arguments with his sister, his ability to connect with anyone despite their age and his ability to undertake tasks way above what is expected of his age.
"If you see Quinton mix concrete, you'll wonder how this little frame was so strong. You'd have to ask his father."
Gabriel's friend since pre-school Kylon Hamilton said he was passionate about sports, playing video games, stilt walking and sneaking away to lime by a nearby river to the displeasure of his parents. He said Gabriel also loved construction machinery.
"Do not talk when Quinton see a backhoe enter the trace. He will always find himself in place. He had a love for backhoes. I always promised him, if I make it out in this life I will purchase him a backhoe. Oh boy he looked forward for that backhoe. Now today he is out of this world and I would not be able to pursue his wish."
Apart from his family and friends, his principal Radheka Kissoonsingh said Gabriel also left an irreplaceable mark on his teachers as she read several testimonies from them. Lamenting Gabriel's death, his uncle said at least he would no longer be in pain. After Gabriel's passing, his parents raised concerns about his treatment at the hospital.
[caption id="attachment_1097339" align="alignnone" width="720"] Kylon Hamilton, close friend of Quinton Gabriel,16, who died of dengue fever, speaks of the joy of being friends with Quinton at his funeral which took place at Boysie Boodoo Funeral Home and Crematorium in Penal on July 20. - Photo by Venessa Mohammed[/caption]
In a release, the South West Regional Health Authority said it launched a detailed investigation into the matter.
“The authority commiserates with the next of kin and loved ones of the deceased client and has therefore extended bereavement services to the family members.“While a preliminary report which details the deceased client’s treatment of care has been generated, as per standard procedure, a detailed inquiry is underway to better understand the circumstances surrounding the demise.”
At the time o
