Sr Martha Hickey with family.
Credit: Independent.ie A 103-year-old nun has become the oldest person in Ireland to contract and survive the coronavirus.
Sr Martha Hickey, an Infant Jesus sister, got the deadly virus over three weeks ago and, against the odds, has made a miraculous recovery.
The centenarian, who has devoted over 80 years of her life to the Church, first fell ill at her nursing home in Co. Cork and was later admitted to a neighbouring hospital.
Suffering with a high temperature and respiratory problems, a hospital test later confirmed that the Limerick native was coronavirus positive.
So proud
Despite her age, the brave sister’s recovery was down to her having no underlying health conditions.
“We are just so proud of her,” says Anne Linehan, one of Sr Martha’s many nieces.
“We didn’t think that she would make it at first – it is a fair test to come out of Covid-19 at 103.
“We really didn’t know what to expect when we heard that it was Covid-19 but the doctors and nurses couldn’t be more delighted with her progress.
Ms Linehan added: “Right now, she is up out of the bed and walking with her walking aid and eating and in great spirits…the doctors are hoping she will be back in the nursing home early this week.”
Sr Martha, who celebrated her milestone 103rd birthday on February 22, was born in 1917 and joined the order at the age of 19.
“She is a remarkable person,” said Ms Linehan, who describes her aunt as “kind” and “resilient”.
“On the year she celebrated her 100th birthday, she also celebrated 80 years of service as a nun.
“During her time as a nun she also worked in Malaysia, she was a primary school teacher and absolutely adored the children.”