iPads for Mid and South Essex NHS Hospital ICUs

Hi everyone,

As some of you may know, my darling dad has been hospitalised with COVID19 induced pneumonia in August 2021. He was in Basildon Hospital - Frederick Banting Ward and has received the most amazing care. It got very scary for a time, however he’s finally pulling through and they are gradually reducing his oxygen levels. I genuinely have no idea how I will ever begin to thank the incredible staff for all their care, support and compassion during what I can only describe as “all of my worst nightmares come at once”, made even more difficult by having Mum isolating at home herself after also testing positive for COVID19. Thankfully Mum only ever got mild symptoms, and recovered well at home.

As anyone who has ever had a loved one in ICU can vouch, it’s a very scary and worrying time. However the current coronavirus restrictions have made this even more frightening. Visiting has become very difficult, if not impossible for most patients and their families. We have been unable to visit Dad in hospital, but a FaceTime call set up by Dad’s critical care nurse has not only brought reassurance to us as Dad’s immediate family, but has also given Dad the morale and strength to fight for his life and reduce from 100% oxygen support and imminent intubation.

I am so so grateful for that FaceTime call, especially as I learnt that there was only 1 tablet the whole ICU ward. Every patient deserves the right to have their family with them, and this is why I’ve decided to start this fundraising page. The aim is to raise enough money to supply as many new iPads to Basildon’s ICU unit as possible. ANY amount you could possibly donate will make a huge difference to both current and future patients and their families, and ALL donations are welcome. Please help us meet our goal! Thank you so much x