UK Nurse Dies Suddenly in Sleep Moments Before Night Shift
A 33-year-old nurse has died unexpectedly after going for a brief rest ahead of his scheduled night shift, leaving his young family devastated and prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and the community.
Richmond Mensah, originally from Ghana, was preparing for work at his home in Prescot, Merseyside, on Friday 6 February 2026, when he decided to lie down for a short nap around 4:30pm. He set his alarm for 5:45pm to get ready for his shift.
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When the alarm sounded and he failed to respond, his wife Maybel Sagoe discovered him unresponsive. She immediately called emergency services, who arrived promptly and began resuscitation efforts. Paramedics transported Mr Mensah to hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Mr Mensah, described by his wife as a “good person” with a “good heart” who always tried to help others, had relocated to the UK in 2023 to build a better future for his family. He was widely regarded as a dedicated and compassionate nurse who brought warmth and professionalism to his role.
He leaves behind Maybel and their three young children – aged six, five, and a 14-month-old daughter. The family, originally from Ghana, had hoped to provide greater opportunities for their children through his work in the UK healthcare system.
The cause of death remains undetermined pending the results of a post-mortem examination. Mr Mensah was reported to have been fit and healthy with no known underlying conditions, making the sudden loss particularly shocking to those who knew him.
A GoFundMe campaign, organised by colleagues and friends including nurse Maryjoseph Ngwu, has been launched to support the repatriation of his body to Ghana for burial – in line with the family’s wishes – as well as funeral costs and immediate support for his widow and children.
As of late February 2026, the fundraiser had raised over £9,000 towards its £10,000 target, with contributions from across the nursing community and diaspora networks.
The incident highlights the immense pressures faced by many healthcare workers, particularly those who migrate internationally to support families back home while working demanding shifts in the NHS and care sector.
Tributes continue to highlight Mr Mensah’s kindness, dedication, and the profound impact he had on patients and colleagues alike.
Anyone wishing to contribute or share the appeal can visit the GoFundMe page: In Loving Memory of Richmond – Support his Final Journey Home.
Our thoughts are with Maybel, the children, and all who knew Richmond Mensah during this difficult time.
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Kehinde Oluwatosin is one of the many editors here at Fellow Nurses Africa and fellownurses.com.
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