Mansfield grandad ‘so grateful’ to hospital staff who saved his life

Engineer Richard Hanson, who lives with his wife, Lorraine, in Mansfield Woodhouse, was admitted to King’s Mill Hospital on April 3 after experiencing flu-like symptoms and hallucinating.The 66-year-old was rushed to hospital after his health quickly started to deteriorate and was immediately admitted to intensive care, where he spent the next 35 days.

He was put into an induced coma and was placed on a ventilator, finally waking up on April 28.

He was moved to a specialist respiratory ward on May 7 where he spent a further 25 days recovering.Richard required kidney dialysis and later developed pneumonia and a blood clot, all of which were side effects of the virus.

Against all odds, Richard was finally discharged from hospital on Monday June 1 and reunited with his wife in emotional scenes.

He was welcomed home by some of his closest family and friends who lined his street, observing social distancing rules.

His children Jenna and James, along with his three grandchildren have also been reunited with him again, albeit over video for now. Richard’s family are now keen to extend their thanks to all the staff at the hospital who worked tirelessly to save his life.Lorraine said: “After we discovered how serious Richard’s condition had become, I was asked to go home and self-isolate for 14 days.

“It was an incredibly terrifying waiting game and at times we didn’t know if Richard would make it through, but we put all our faith into the team at King’s Mill who have been absolutely amazing from start to finish.

“We are so grateful to each and every one of them - they never gave up on him.“There were so many people at the hospital who played a part in his recovery, but our biggest thanks has to go to Nichola, the patient liaison officer, who gave us regular updates during Richard’s time on the ward.

“She showed us so much care and compassion and we took great comfort in her daily calls.

“She helped to keep me sane when our world felt like it was falling apart and now feels like a friend of the family.”Nichola Crust, Family Liaison Nurse at King’s Mill, added: “I was just so pleased that I could help Richard and his family.

“Their closeness really resonated with me and I just wanted to help them all keep in touch – we are so pleased that he is now home.” Richard says: “The extent of what I’ve been through is only just sinking in.

“Coronavirus is such a cruel illness and I wouldn’t wish it on anybody.

“I have been truly overwhelmed by the love and support from our family and friends who have been there for Lorraine while I’ve been in hospital, and for the fantastic reception they gave me when I arrived home.

“I don’t remember much of my time in there, but I’m so grateful to the team at King’s Mill for saving my life and allowing me to see my family again.

“They are true heroes.”