Eastbourne man who nearly died from covid-19 returns to DGH to thank staff

Mark Williams contracted covid-19 in December 2020 and was given just a 20 per cent chance of survival.

After fighting for his life in the intensive care unit, he is now back at work.

His partner, Sharon Smith wanted to give back to the nurses and doctors at the DGH so decided to walk from Eastbourne to Brighton to raise £1,600 for the unit.

She explained that the unit plan to buy iPads and typing devices so patients can communicate with their families.

Following his visit to the ICU Mr Williams said, “I found it quite a pleasant experience really.

“It was nice to see the nurses and to be able to thank them personally.”

Mr Williams also explained how he was able to fill in gaps in his memory.

He said, “It was also nice to ask a few questions.

“There were a few things I wasn’t quite sure about so they filled in a lot of the gaps which was nice.”

The social care worker was also given photographs and a journal of his stay in the unit to help understand what happened while he was in a coma.

Miss Smith said, “It was very emotional.

“I can’t look at the photographs, I can’t read the journal.”

Miss Smith also expressed her gratitude for the staff at the DGH.

She said, “It was very humbling being there and talking to them.

“They are going through a trauma every day in the ICU.”

To read about Mr Williams’ story click here.