'I didn't think I was going to make it': Coronavirus patient's tribute to Chesterfield Royal Hospital staff

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A Chesterfield man who battled coronavirus in intensive care for ten days has paid an emotional tribute to the ‘kind and special’ NHS staff who saved his life.

George Mortimer’s wad admitted to Chesterfileld Royal Hospital with severe symptoms on November 16.

When the 51-year-old developed respiratory failure the next day, he was transferred to the High Dependancy Unit.

"My family was told I would probably have to go to sleep to have any chance of recovering,” said George, a local funeral director. “At that point my life hung in the balance.

George Mortimer, 51, battled coronavirus for ten days at Chesterfield Royal Hospital and credits the 'kind and special' staff with saving his life.

"I reached the HDU and as I did about 20 staff dressed like smurfs to secure their own safety just took my life over into their hands.

"I was given a chance to try and beat this horrible virus. I had to wear Airvo masks to supply my body with oxygen to survive.”

George described HDU staff as ‘second to none’ as they battled to keep him alive on the ward.

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"The dedication. The listening when you think you’re not going to make it,” he said. "I would sum these staff up as amazing, non-judgmental, professional, kind and special people.

"I finally left the HDU on Friday, November 27 after a 10 day stay. This experience will never leave me- I saw things that will stay with me.

"I just wish we could educate people because if they spent one day in the HDU at Chesterfield Royal, they would for sure have a different look at things.

"I left the hospital three days later and I walked out of the door crying as I thought my boss would probably be arranging my funeral.”

A spokesperson for Chesterfield Royal Hospital said: “Our critical care teams do a magnificent job under challenging circumstances with care and compassion, treating every patient as an individual while providing support for their families and loved ones at the same time.

"It’s always lovely to hear how well our patients are doing after they’ve left our care.

“We’d like to thank George for his very kind comments and hope that he continues to make a wonderful recovery.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.