Crowdfunding campaign to buy tablets for coronavirus patients at Scarborough Hospital to keep in touch with relatives

A bid to help coronavirus victims at Scarborough Hospital keep in touch with their loved ones is being launched by a man whose mum contracted the dangerous disease.
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Peter Hutchinson, from Bridlington, has spoken of his heartbreak at not being able to comfort his mother Jenny Stancliffe when she fell ill because of the strict isolation rules in place.

Mrs Stancliffe, who is a well known darts player in Bridlington, was rushed to Scarborough Hospital last month because she was struggling to breathe.

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She was tested for coronavirus and, two days later, the result came back positive.

Peter and his mum Jenny. Picture: From Peter.Peter and his mum Jenny. Picture: From Peter.
Peter and his mum Jenny. Picture: From Peter.

“I was heartbroken” said Peter, 35.

“It’s been so hard because the death toll has been going up so much.

“You don’t expect it to be one of your own family.”

Mrs Stancliffe, 55, has asthma and had been self-isolating since being advised to by the Government.

“She hasn’t seen anyone so were flabbergasted about how she got it,” said Peter.

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His mum spent almost a week in hospital before being allowed to return home on Wednesday (April 1), where she is now recovering.

Peter said one of the most difficult aspects has been being unable to be at her bedside.

“It’s so awful that we can’t be there to hold her hand,” he said. “It’s been horrible. I wouldn’t wish this on anyone.”

His family’s experience has inspired him to launch a fund raising page to pay for devices which allow video calling for coronavirus patients being treated at Scarborough Hospital.

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“I want to buy the ward some smart devices that can be given to the patients so they can be in contact with friends and relatives,” he explained.

“In a worst case scenario, it may be the last time they get to speak or see them.”

He added his has huge praise for the hospital staff on Lilac and Maple wards who looked after his mum.

“They’re providing a first class service, absolutely first class,” he said.

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To donate to Peter’s fund raising visit www.gofundme.com/f/coronavirus-fund-for-scarborough-hospitalPeter would also like to make some hampers for the staff on the wards with essential items such as tea, coffee and soup they can use during their shifts and is asking any local shops and supermarkets who could help him to get in touch via email - [email protected]

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