Help sought to repatriate body of father-of-one from Letterkenny to Philippines

The family of a young Letterkenny man, who died suddenly this week, have appealed for assistance to repatriate his remains to his native Philippines.

Michael Yecyec suffered a cardiac arrest at Letterkenny University Hospital on Wednesday and died.

A popular employee at the Quiet Moment on the Main Street, Michael’s passing has rocked his family. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and a four-month-old son, James.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to aid his family in taking Michael back to Philippines. So far, almost €3,500 of a €10,000 target has been reached. You can donate by clicking here.

Charmaine Rhoda Yecyec, Michael’s sister, says her family has been left ‘utterly devastated and heartbroken’ at his passing.

On June 24, Michael was rushed to LUH where he underwent emergency open heart surgery. During a subsequent stay in the intensive care unit, Michael had to undergo an operation on his leg due to compartment syndrome.

His condition was becoming stable, but he went unexpectedly went into cardiac arrest on Wednesday and medics were unable to revive him.

The family are keen to bring him back to Philippines, ‘where he can rest in peace surrounded by our loved ones, our parents, his baby and the land he cherished’.

“Due to the sudden nature of his passing, we are struggling to cover the expenses associated with transporting his remains to the Philippines,” Charmaine said.

“The cost of repatriation is significant, and we are appealing to our community to help us raise funds needed to bring my brother back home.

“I would greatly appreciate every donation, no matter how small. I wish to thank everyone who gives a donation, no matter how small, it will really make a difference.”