COVID19

‘She gave everything for us’ | Family members donate blood to honor mother lost to COVID-19

By Isaias A. Mott 2 weeks ago

Remembering their mother as a selfless woman, they knew she would want them to help others.

MANDEVILLE, La. — A family donated blood together Saturday in Mandeville in honor of their mother who passed of COVID-19. Eloisa Pastrana of Slidell was a wife and mother of six. She died July 23 after a month long battle with COVID-19. 

“This is a dangerous illness that needs to be taken seriously,” said Jose Pastrana, Pastrana’s son. 

She’s described as loving, kind and selfless. That’s why nine of her family members came together for this selfless act. 

“She gave everything for us, there was nothing she wouldn’t do,” said Peggy Hale, Pastrana’s daughter. “it was amazing actually we felt a sort of togetherness and happy to do it in honor of our mother.”

Her family says she was given convalescent plasma treatment.

“It didn’t work for her, unfortunately, but the nurses told us

… Read More

14 family members contract COVID-19 after backyard barbecue

By Isaias A. Mott 2 weeks ago

14 family members contract COVID-19 after backyard barbecue

A family is mourning and hoping for healing after 14 family members were infected by the virus.

DALLAS – A family is mourning and hoping for healing after 14 family members were infected by the virus.

A one-time gathering has deeply affected the family and those who love them.

After spending months apart, the family thought it was safe to get together for a small backyard BBQ.

None of them felt sick at the time. Days later, 14 family members would test positive for COVID-19. One died from the virus. Another remains on a ventilator.

“Everyone has reassured me that it’s not my fault, but it’s my home,” the 43-year-old said.

MORE: Coronavirus coverage

Green and his partner hosted a small get together for both their parents in mid-June. The six of them felt fine at the time and went on

… Read More