The CEO of Bedford Hospital has paid tribute to a member of staff who has lost his life to coronavirus.
Graham Thorne, a maintenance worker at the hospital, died on 20 April after being on a ventilator for 14 days.
David Carter, CEO, Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said, “It is with extreme regret that I confirm the sad news that we have lost another of our colleagues, Graham Thorne, who passed away at Bedford Hospital over the weekend.
“Graham worked at Bedford Hospital for four years as a Maintenance Craftsman and was a well-respected member of our Estates Team.
“Graham fell ill at the end of March and self-isolated. A few days later his condition worsened and he was admitted to Bedford Hospital, where he tested positive for Covid-19.
“Graham was a quiet and friendly member of the team who was incredibly diligent at his work and who will be greatly missed.
“We are saddened to lose another much loved member of the Bedfordshire Hospitals family and our thoughts and condolences are with Graham’s family and colleagues at this incredibly sad time. We ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this time.”
The 58-year-old was admitted to hospital on 5 April where he tested positive for COVID-19.
Mr Thorne’s partner, Debbie Cox told the BBC that he was “perfect” and they never argued.
According to the BBC website, Miss Cox said he had called her to ask if she could charge his phone. “That was the last time we spoke,” she said.
“He was sedated, but I was allowed in wearing protective equipment to be with him for the last few minutes,” Miss Cox said.
“He was a quiet, kind, considerate and loving man, who was loved by many,” she added.
