Martin Salia

1970 - 2014

Martin Salia

1970 - 2014

BORN

1970

DIED

2014

Martin Salia Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Nov. 17, 2014.
OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A surgeon who contracted Ebola in his native Sierra Leone died Monday while being treated in a biocontainment unit at a Nebraska hospital, the facility said.

Nebraska Medical Center said in a news release that Dr. Martin Salia died as a result of the disease. Hospital spokesman Taylor Wilson said Salia died shortly after 4 a.m. Monday.

"Dr. Salia was extremely critical when he arrived here, and unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we weren't able to save him," said Dr. Phil Smith, medical director of the biocontainment unit.

Salia arrived Saturday to be treated at the Omaha hospital, where two other Ebola patients have been successfully treated.

Salia had advanced symptoms when he arrived at the hospital Saturday, which included kidney and respiratory failure, the hospital said. He was placed on dialysis, a ventilator and given several medications to support his organ systems.

"We used every possible treatment available to give Dr. Salia every possible opportunity for survival," Smith said. "As we have learned, early treatment with these patients is essential. In Dr. Salia's case, his disease was already extremely advanced by the time he came here for treatment."

Salia's wife, Isatu Salia, said Monday that she and her family were grateful for the efforts made by her husband's medical team.

"We are so appreciate of the opportunity for my husband to be treated here and believe he was in the best place possible," Salia said.

Ebola has killed more than 5,000 people in West Africa, mostly in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone. Five other doctors in Sierra Leone have contracted Ebola, and all have died.

The 44-year-old Salia had been working as a general surgeon at Kissy United Methodist Hospital in the Sierra Leone capital of Freetown. It's not clear whether he was involved in the care of Ebola patients. Kissy is not an Ebola treatment unit, but Salia worked in at least three other facilities, United Methodist News said, citing health ministry sources.

Salia, a Sierra Leone citizen who lived in Maryland, first showed Ebola symptoms on Nov. 6 but tested negative for the virus. He eventually tested positive on Nov. 10.

Isatu Salia said in a telephone interview over the weekend that when she spoke to her husband early Friday his voice sounded weak and shaky. But he told her "I love you" in a steady voice, she said.

They prayed together, she said, calling her husband "my everything."

___

NELSON LAMPE, Associated Press


Copyright © 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Sign Martin Salia's Guest Book

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September 29, 2015

sharon posted to the memorial.

December 1, 2014

Someone posted to the memorial.

November 30, 2014

Jen posted to the memorial.

86 Entries

sharon

September 29, 2015

It was hard to believe that was you on a stretcher from Sierra Leone! And it is so difficult to accept you are gone. But I know for sure heroes never die. You 'll forever remain so cherished in our hearts. I still see your handwriting in my hospital card and still see you running as usual in the Banso Baptist Hospital (BBH -Cameroon) .Maada & Hiinwai, please take care of our mother! I know if given a second chance, you'll still go back to Sierra Leone to save lives. RIP my hero & may the good God reward your efforts on earth!

December 1, 2014

My condolence to the Martin Salia family,may God extend his Hand of mercy,and compassion to you by giving you peace..Matt.5:4....nc

Jen

November 30, 2014

I am so sorry for the loss of your dear loved one. God is close to the brokenhearted and will help you through this difficult time.

Malachi 3:16

November 29, 2014

Condolences to Mrs. Salia and family members of Dr. Salia-

We are deeply saddened to hear the news about Dr. Salia.  We hope that the refreshing memories and spiritual texts of comfort in this guest book console you and help you to know that you are in our thoughts.  Visiting this guest book all of us are faced with life's brevity and the thing of most importance - the way we live our lives now.  
May Dr. Salia's accomplishments be written in God's "book of remembrance” the most important book of all!

"A House that sits on a hill cannot be hid"

Reverend Dr. Yvonne Washington-Turay

November 28, 2014

"Earth has no Sorrow that heaven cannot heal." "Sorrow may endure for a season, but joy cometh in the morning." (Psa.30:5) Keep your eyes on the Lord! May the Lord grant you and the family the grace to endure this fiery trial. May the peace of God be with you all as you pas through this period of morning. It takes courage to stay and work in an environment where one knows many are dying and the resources are limited. May the death of your loved one not be in vain. The death of Dr. Salia can be likened to that of Jesus Christ who died for the redemption of our sins. The unselfish sacrifice of Dr. Martin Salia and the countless number of other healthcare workers who have died in this struggle against EBOLA is a statement that he/they were not afraid to sacrifice himself/themselves for the needs of the people and the country of Sierra Leone. May the Lord grant wisdom to those who are in authority to make "Health" a major priorty so that the lives of other healthcare workers and individuals will not be sacrificed for naught. May the Lord keep you in perfect peace during this time of mourning. My prayers are with you, your family and the Country of Sierra Leone. In Jesus name.

R W

November 26, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Wright

November 24, 2014

Mrs Salia, we are very sorry to hear of the loss of your dear husband, our hearts are saddened. Draw close to God and he will draw close to you during your grief

Grieving Unitedly

November 24, 2014

My heart is saddened by your sudden loss of a cherished loved one and most honorable doctor whose primary mission was to heal the sick and save lives. Take every opportunity; early in the morning, throughout the day, or during restless hours while trying to sleep to petition God in prayer. Be assured that you can always throw all your anxiety on him--your Father, your Creator, and your friend because He cares for you. With deepest sympathy for your loss!

November 23, 2014

...People are grateful for Dr. Martin Salia's outstanding efforts in dedicating himself to help those in need. It's heartbreaking to know he was a victim himself and they weren't able to save him.
Although today the family grief the loss of a loved one, be assured that God will never forget his good deeds...May God grant you all inner peace and strength to continue dealing with your sadness.

Fran No gol

November 22, 2014

I am sadden by the news of loosing Dr Salia. I pray for his family.

Beverly F

November 22, 2014

My condolences to the family of Dr. Saliva, sorry for your loss. May God provide you with his strength to cope with this tragic loss,

A caring person

November 21, 2014

God made man and he make you a great man.This light of your will always shine on earth. Family you are bless to be apart of a very special man and may God bless you always.

bubba lewis

November 21, 2014

Thank u and all other healthcare workers who are willing to risk their lives to help others.??

Jane Shepard

November 20, 2014

So, so sad. He is a Catholic and has exemplified all the best virtues and qualities of a man of God, and of his Catholic faith. He is more a saint than any pope. His imprint on kindness and humility will resound on earth and in heaven. And in the long rung, he will do more to help his brothers and sisters in Africa. He, his wife and family are profiles in courage. RIP dear warrior who left the world so much better than he found it.

Barbara Fitzgerald and Family

November 20, 2014

May GOD bless the family of Dr.Martin Salia Iam for your lost.Dr.Salia,s courage,kindness, and unselfishness will be remembered world wide. GOD will never forget your labor of love. You have my deepest sympathy.I thank Dr. Salia and the family for his service to humanity.

November 20, 2014

Expressing heartfelt sympathy coupled with a prayer that God above will comfort you and ease the loss you bear. May the peace of God that excels all thought guard your hearts. Phillipians 4:7

November 20, 2014

Dear family, please take courage and remember God's promise, that death and sickness will be eradicated. So throw all your anxiety on the God of peace, he is near to all those calling on him in truth (Psalms 145:18)

Kelly Smith

November 19, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

M P

November 19, 2014

It is devastating to all to hear of the death of a person who helps others. Dr. Martin Salia's untimely death has caused a stinging pain in the heart of all who knew him and even those who didn't know him. May the God of all Comfort, comfort you in this distressing time.

November 19, 2014

Dr. Salia was no doubt a caring man who devoted his life to prolonging the lives of others. My condolences go to his family. Hopefully, Isaiah 33 verse 24 will bring some comfort to his work and family.

November 19, 2014

May the God of all comfort, comfort you at this time of grief. 2 Cor 1:3

November 19, 2014

Dr. Salia risked his life to save others he was a HERO and a saint. Family know that God will take care of you and provide comfort to you in the days ahead.

November 19, 2014

Mr. Salia was doing a wonderful work trying to help others. The extent to which he gave of himself will not go unnoticed by our Heavenly Father. May the family draw comfort in knowing that Mr. Salia is in God's memory.

bvd- (John 17:3)

November 19, 2014

It was so sad to hear about Dr. Salia death. May his family cherish the wonderful memories in knowing that he died with honor loving and caring for others from the heart. May God Almighty comfort you Mrs Salia and your family. (Psalm 83:18)

November 19, 2014

What a tragedy! To friends and family, sorry for your recent loss. May the power of God help you find peace and endurance. Is.33:24

November 18, 2014

TO THE ENTIRE SALIA FAMILY,MAY GOD BE WITH YOU ALL AT THIS TIME AND ALWAYS WHAT A BEAYTIFUL DOCTOR THIS MAN WAS,SACRIFICING TO HELP PEOPLE IN NEED=DR SALIA YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN GOD BLESS YOU ALL AT THIS SAD TIME,KNOW THAT YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS=FAMILY MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL TINA MARIE FIORDELISO

Faith

November 18, 2014

RIP and God bless you for your service. Praying for your family.

Kate Ferraro

November 18, 2014

My heart mourns with you, Mrs Salia, and with your sons. God will wipe away all tears from your eyes and give you peace and strength during this time. You are also a hero for sharing your husband with the world when it needed him. Please know that Dr Salia's courage and the sacrifices of your family have touched many, many lives.

Kate Ferraro

November 18, 2014

You are safe in the arms of Jesus, Dr Salia!

Robert Hawkins

November 18, 2014

What a loss...I am deeply saddened at the loss of Dr. Salia. He is mourned by the whole world. May the family find peace at this difficult time. Wishing you God's blessings.

Robert Hawkins

November 18, 2014

To the Salia family, I send my deepest sympathy. What a GIANT who cared for his people. He will be soley missed. May his soul rest in peace. amen

Tom Wilson

November 18, 2014

God bless you and thank you for your selfless work in East Africa. The world needs more Martin Salias.

CARMEN M LUCZAK

November 18, 2014

My thoughts and prayers with your family. May you rest in peace.

The Brown Family

November 18, 2014

To the Salia Family: I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one, Dr. Martin Salia. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May all of you turn to your faith, scripture and the Holy Spirit for comfort, solace and peace. I know that Dr. Salia is with the LORD, called Home by our loving Father and suspended in peaceful bliss.
I am grateful for the example he showed to all of us regarding heeding God's calling. Many people received his help through his obedience to heed the calling of the LORD and may we all learn from his example. May peace and blessings be with all of you now and always

Cleve

November 18, 2014

May Jah the Hearer of Prayer (Psalm65:2 and 119:76,50) console the hearts and comfort the minds of the Salia Family in your time of greif, Please accept my condolences

Susan Patton

November 18, 2014

RIP your courage and unselfish acts of kindness saved many lives. God be with your family.

Joan Walton

November 18, 2014

God says who ever loses his life for Him shall have ever lasting life . Peace be with you my brother.

Gloria

November 18, 2014

Extending my deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Martin Salia:
It is little that one can say or do to erase all of your pain. May knowing that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many bring a measure of comfort. We look forward to the time when all things that cause sickness and death will be eradicated. This will be accomplished only by God's Kingdom which we pray for on a regular basis as recorded for us at Matthew 6:9,10. Soon, when that prayer becomes a reality, "No one will say, I am sick". Isa. 33:24. At that we will be reunited with our loved ones to live forever on a paradise earth.

CHERYL JEFFERSON

November 18, 2014

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY AND AFRICA GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOUR FAMILY

Angela

November 18, 2014

Dr. Salia, May your soul rest in peace in Jesus Christ. May your family find comfort and peace during this difficult times.

November 18, 2014

My heartfelt sympathy is extended to the family of Dr. Martin Salia. He gave his life for his country. What an unselfish act. A HERO! May God continue to bless his family.

R. Williams, Annapolis, MD

Kathryn Irby

November 18, 2014

I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved one--Dr. Salia. May God Bless each and all of you at this sad time. Rest in Peace, Kind Sir.

November 18, 2014

Beloved Wife, Children & Family of Dr. Salia: From near and afar, we send our deepest condolences on the unforeseen loss of your dear husband, also a father, a son, a brother and dear friend to many. Dr.Salia chose a career to help people and relieve pain and suffering. And now the greatest pain we never get use to ...LOSING A LOVED ONE has touched each of your lives unexpectedly as it has countless others thru this disease.

May the words at Numbers 23:19 quote, "God is not a mere man who tells lies. Nor a son of man who changes his mind. When he SAYS SOMETHNG, WILL HE NOT DO IT? WHEN HE SPEAKS, WILL HE NOT CARRY IT OUT?" (New World Translation) May that scripture bring continued comfort,support & hope to each of you. And may you look to the future plans for Earth from the God of Hope who is pained by loss of life. His plan includes a 2nd chance to those now R.I.P. to be able to physically enjoy living on Earth again, but without diseases, etc. as guaranteed by Numbers 23:19

May all the memories shared outshine the grief, and may Earth's future give you Hope!

J-Ne P. & Family
California & Sierra Leone

November 18, 2014

So sorry to learn of the death of Dr.Martin Salia. I will continue to pray for the family and ask God to send the Comforter and give you peace through this difficult time. Please know that many are praying for you. May Dr. Salia soul rest in peace.

R. Fergerson
Berlin, Germany

November 18, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Aidan Walsh

November 17, 2014

My deepest sorrows to his wife family & friends keep in your hearts always that he is an Angel now who passed quickly through the gates to Heaven he will now watch & care for all of us & he will fight for an Ebola cure from Heaven now, he watches now over all the sick & he will continue to make his rounds as an Angel for the Ebola sick May the Amighty watch over him always x x R.I.P. Angel u r a champion Angel Doctor x x bless you x x

Abby Greer

November 17, 2014

My condolences go out to Martin Salia's Family.I'm so sorry for your loss.Martin was a wonderful person who enjoyed his life and lived his life to the fullest until the very end of his life.Please don't let this tragedy ruin your life.The Doctors and nurses did everything that they could do to try to Save Martin Salia and it just wasn't enough so things like this happen to good people and it's very devastating and sad to know that Martin Salia will no longer be with us but he's resting in peace and that's all that matters right now.My thoughts and prayers go out to Martin Salia's Family tonight.

November 17, 2014

I am so sorry you had to experience such a great loss. May almighty God comfort you and bring peace to the family.

Connie Force

November 17, 2014

May you rest in Gods arms. You will dearly be missed from family and friends. God bless this family.

Connie

November 17, 2014

To the Salia family,
Your husband, father, was a true hero. His sacrifice in caring for others will not be forgotten. May the God of all comfort be with you and grant you His peace. Our family will continue to pray for you.

November 17, 2014

Sorry for your loss. May the "Peace of God"(Phillipians 4:6,7) be with you as you cope with such sorrow.

A Cook

November 17, 2014

Thank you for your service to humanity. You came here to serve others and you did...thank you!

Bettie Finnie

November 17, 2014

To The Family of Dr. Salina:

I know for certain that we never lose the people we love even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible print in our lives. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.

Ani

November 17, 2014

Rest now in the eternal love of our God. May your family find comfort that you served Mankind as all of us are meant to serve.
God bless all of you.

November 17, 2014

My condolences to the family during this most difficult time in your lives. May your entire family find comfort in drawing close to God. He is close to the broken-hearted.

Robert's

November 17, 2014

I am sincerely sorry in the loss of Dr. Salia, He did works of God with his hands and heart. Wish he could have been saved from the terrible disease. Prayers and God's Grace be with you as you grieve his loss, and memories stay with you. Blessings.

G Alexander

November 17, 2014

I am truly sorry for the loss of of Mr Salia, May heartfelt thoughts bring you comfort and loving memories bring you peace. Also, may the peace of God that excels all thought bring you comfort during this most difficult time. Philippians 4:6,7

Artis

November 17, 2014

TO THE FAMILY. MAY GOD,BE YOUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH. DURING, THIS MOST DIFFICULT TIME.DR.SALIA WERE A DRUM MAJOR, SOLDIER, FIREND AND. A HERO FOR THE SICK.MAY GOD BLESS HIS SOUL.

Terrie

November 17, 2014

I am so sorry that such a wonderful person had to suffer and leave his loved ones. He did enough good in his short time on earth to last a lifetime. Praying for you all.

Jamilah Mason

November 17, 2014

I was shocked to learn that you have gone home to god. Although I never knew you except threw media I was very happy u arrived here to get help. When the plane landed I was excited then all the joy turned to shock when I learned you had home home. I must say to your family that I bless them and I send my deepest condolences to your entire family. The work you chose to do will never be taken for granted though it took your life..??????

November 17, 2014

So sorry for the loss of this life.May God grant you peace,and may the memories that you've shared be the comfort that you seek.God is opening his hand and satisfying the desire of every living thing..pslm.145:16......Dee

THE CAREY FAMILY

November 17, 2014

FROM UPSTATE N.Y. TO THE FAMILY & FRIENDS OF DR.SALIA, OUR THOUGHTS & PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL, WITH THE PASSING OF YOUR LOVED ONE. MAY YOU FIND COMFORT IN KNOWING OTHERS CARE & SHARE YOUR LOSS. DEEPEST SYMPATHY FROM AMERICA TO YOU ALL. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

Chris M

November 17, 2014

Thank you, Dr. Salia, for sacrificing your life so that others may live theirs. You are such an inspiration to us all. Rest in peace.

Hattie's

November 17, 2014

My family and I send, you and your fa mily I our deepest sympathies. And may God bless all of you. 2corn.1:3,10

Sandi W

November 17, 2014

Dr.Salia-What a wonderful person! I did not know him, but I admire him for being in the Will of God, and following his heart. Remember the good times. I pray for you all, and that God will grant you the Peace that only he can give, and the Comfort of the Holy Spirit.

November 17, 2014

In Gods word the Bible it states, "Do not be amazed at this., for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear Gods voice and come out. Therefore, we can look forward to seeing our dead love ones again.

Annie Horne

November 17, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

November 17, 2014

Isatu and Family,

Sorry for the loss of your dear husband. He was a brave man as were all those caring for those who were ill. It takes very special people do that kind of work. They are not concern about themselves, but are caring enough to risk their lives to help others. The family is in our prayers. May the God who gives peace be with all of you.-RO.15:33

Kim Baldridge

November 17, 2014

Rest in Peace Dr. Salia. You did a job that is for only the brave. You will pass on a great legacy to your children knowing what an honorable man their father was. God Bless You.

November 17, 2014

Our Prayers are with your family. God Bless

DS

November 17, 2014

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Scott Chamberland

November 17, 2014

Please accept my Deepest Sympathies

Kimberly Oates-Glover

November 17, 2014

God Bless him...prayers with the family.

November 17, 2014

May God bless your family. The ultimate sacrifice was given.

Jean Young

November 17, 2014

As a missionary surgeon in Ghana, West Africa and a member of PAACS, I was praying earnestly for Dr. Salia. We grieve the loss of this outstanding doctor. May his soul rest in perfect peace and may light perpetual shine upon him!

November 17, 2014

I am very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to the family and friends. I hope that you find comfort from God who promises of a future illnesses such as a ebola and others will no longer be of a problem to us. Isaiah 33: 24

Carol Tepper

November 17, 2014

I am so sorry to hear about Dr. Salia. He was a good man to help and heal so many people as I'm sure he did. He will be remembered fondly.

Robin

November 17, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Salia's family and friends at this very sad time. I prayed hard for this gentleman to survive, but the Lord needed him more. I pray God eases the families pain and allows a speedy healing from this very sad loss. This man gave his life to save others and he will forever be remembered as a saint in my eyes as in others. God bless the family. Your loved one was and is a hero, a hero with wings now that will watch over his family forever.

L Campbell

November 17, 2014

I had so hoped that Dr. Salia would improve. Our condolences and prayers are with his family and his countrymen who have lost a skilled surgeon.

Eddie & Shelia Harris

November 17, 2014

Our Deepest Sympathy To You All In Your Time Of Sorrow.

Jane Dowling

November 17, 2014

God bless you and your loved ones ~

Andrea

November 17, 2014

The memories of Dr. Salia will bring you comfort. Although you are grieving now, you can have hope. God will comfort and bless you at this critical time. Complete reliance on "the God of all comfort" will help you to endure the loss of your loved one.

RLA

November 17, 2014

I'm sad to here about the loss of Dr.Salia. He lived in my hometown. He was a true hero who put the well being of others ahead of his own. The words penned at John 6:44 may very well apply to a man as courageous as he. Thanks for your self-sacrificing love Dr. Salia. I know your family is extremely proud of you.

November 17, 2014

RIP Dr. Salia...
Lancaster, PA

wanda williams

November 17, 2014

Thank you for your compassionate care given to those you treated rest now

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September 29, 2015

sharon posted to the memorial.

December 1, 2014

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November 30, 2014

Jen posted to the memorial.