Tributes paid to Thornliebank carer who dies days after starring in TikTok video

Tributes have been paid to a woman who died just days after a video of her dancing with a 102-year-old Thornliebank care home resident went viral.
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Jeanette McKenna (53) was a carer at Whitecraigs and became an internet sensation after a video of her having a boogie with former police officer Percy Mann during his daily exercise session reached millions

She was found dead in her home just days later on May 7.

Jeanette had worked at the same care home for ten years and was described as “popular” and “selfless” by her colleagues.

Jeanette McKenna became an internet sensation after starring in a TikTok video with 102-year-old Percy Mann at Whitecraigs Care Home. (Photos: Facebook)Jeanette McKenna became an internet sensation after starring in a TikTok video with 102-year-old Percy Mann at Whitecraigs Care Home. (Photos: Facebook)
Jeanette McKenna became an internet sensation after starring in a TikTok video with 102-year-old Percy Mann at Whitecraigs Care Home. (Photos: Facebook)
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And in a heartfelt post on Facebook her son Alex Fernie said: “She gave her life to protect others and that was my mum in a nutshell, as long as you’re okay she’s okay.

“Selfless in every way.

“Hero for me doesn’t quite cut it, my mum was an absolute angel.

“This Covid-19 isn’t a joke, please take it more seriously or it could be your loved one.

Keep all your loved ones safe life’s too short, it really is.

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“I will always miss you Mum, always love you and forever in my memories as the best person I’ve known.

“RIP Mum. I love you.”

Following Jeanette’s death, a spokesman for Whitecraigs care home said: “We are deeply shocked and saddened at this tragic news.

“Jeanette was a hugely popular carer, colleague and friend for the past ten years.

“She was absolutely selfless and gave love and support to all residents and families within her care.

“She will be greatly missed by everyone at Whitecraigs.

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“Our heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.”

While there are ongoing fears of coronavirus cases spreading among care homes and frontline staff, the cause of Ms McKenna’s death is still unknown.

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