My Dad ( Michael McGonigle) recently contracted Covid-19.

We all tried our very best to avoid this as he has underlying respiratory issues but unfortunately my Dad’s health deteriorated and he was admitted to the Chestnut ward at Darent Valley Hospital.

As no visitors are allowed, we were in regular contact with the ward for updates, they were very helpful and patient with our phone calls. Michael continued to valiantly fight the virus but we started to fear the worst. It was a very fearful time but thankfully my Dad was discharged.

When he returned home he was still very weak but he wanted to thank the staff and NHS. Michael was amazed by their hard work, care and support towards all the patients.

My Dad is a retired engineer and gifted musician so he thought he would make a thank you film with his guitar, surrounded by his pets in his garden.

You tube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fm0AfjmVFdE&list=PLZ0tHL6uic44pzbmRSYUXnZPzPYeNEpjZ

The film ( which was shot by his son in law, as we are self isolating as a family) has received thousands of views and caught the attention of many newspapers. We therefore thought we could take this gratitude further and raise money for the staff who are risking their lives to help others during this testing time.

Music has alway been a mutual love in our family. We often perform in a family band called The McGonigles. Our drummer is a paramedic on the front line, our singer is a teacher and Michael is fighting his personal battle against this evil virus.

We would like this video to give hope, calmness and help to highlight the amazing work of the NHS.

We would be very thankful if you could please donate to Darent Valley Hospital and the NHS to give them a boost of positivity and to remind them how grateful we are.

Thank you

The McGonigles