Labor MP Ged Kearney's father-in-law dies from coronavirus

Federal Labor MP Ged Kearney says her father-in-law had done his best to isolate but became sick suddenly, eventually succumbing to the virus.

Ged Kearney's father-in-law has died from COVID-19.

Ged Kearney's father-in-law has died from COVID-19. Source: AAP/Ged Kearney

Federal Labor MP Ged Kearney has revealed her father-in-law was the 30th person in Australia to die from coronavirus.

Ms Kearney took to social media to post a tribute to her late father-in-law, Mike, who died in Canberra Hospital on Saturday.

The 82-year-old was the ACT's second coronavirus death.

The Labor MP said her father-in-law had done his best to isolate but became sick suddenly, was admitted to hospital and died seven days later.

"In fact I believe he only went outside a couple of times in the whole month to shop," she said on Facebook.
"We actually teased him because he had bought 5kgs of rice and 10 tins of chic peas and 10 cans of tomatoes - for just him and his lovely wife Wendy. Panic buying we said! But of course it was the right thing to do."

She went on to say that death in the time of COVID-19 is hard as Mike's Canberra family, including his wife, are in isolation and must grieve on their own.
Ms Kearney also thanked Australians for doing the right thing by staying at home during the pandemic but urged people to not become immune to the numbers.

"Every death is sad and felt deeply by someone. I know most people are finding kindness and helping out at every turn, and I am feeling the caring nature of our community first hand," she said.

"I know you know what you must do to curb the deaths, I don't need to tell you.

"Please - Just do it, and keep doing it."

People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others and gatherings are limited to two people unless you are with your family or household.

If you believe you may have contracted the virus, call your doctor (don’t visit) or contact the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. If you are struggling to breathe or experiencing a medical emergency, call 000.

SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments. News and information is available in 63 languages at sbs.com.au/coronavirus


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