Two NHS nurses have been killed in a horror car crash with a bus while visiting the Grand Canyon in the US.
Southampton General Hospital nurses Raquel Moreira, 28 and Tatiana Brand, 30, were reported to have been killed instantly when the driver of the vehicle they were in performed a U-turn while on State Route 64 in Arizona.
The vehicle was struck as the driver performed the turn on the road which acts as a gateway to the canyon. No one on the bus was injured in the incident.
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The “kind and talented” pair, who had emigrated to the UK from their home country Portugal, had spent years planning their trip across the US and had posted pictures of their holiday in the days leading up to the collision.
Tribute was paid to the pair by their NHS colleagues at Southampton General Hospital today.
Gail Byrne, chief nursing officer, said, via The Mirror: "The entire nursing family at University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust has been left shocked and saddened by the tragic deaths of two much-loved colleagues as they enjoyed a holiday together in America.
"Tatiana, 30, joined the Trust seven years ago and was a highly respected member of the neurology department. Raquel, 28, had worked at UHS for the past five years and was a very valued part of the stroke ACP team.
"Both had chosen to move from Portugal to join UHS and had bright careers ahead of them.
"The friends were well-known for their kindness, empathy and enthusiasm. 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. I know I speak on behalf of the entire UHS workforce in saying they will be sorely missed.
"We send our love and condolences to their families at this very sad time."
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