At Christmas, Gerry was unwell. A couple of weeks later, he developed serious breathing difficulties and was admitted to hospital . Then he became critically ill and was put on a ventilator in ITU. Family and friends have been supporting Kate who, as you can imagine, has been very distressed.

On 18th January, doctors decided that Gerry's only chance of survival was to receive specialist treatment 120 miles from home at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London. A team of experts arrived from the Brompton, performed an operation to put Gerry on an ECMO (lung bypass) machine, then transported him back by ambulance during the night.

Whilst Gerry was at the Brompton, you donated an amazing £2000, which helped Kate stay in London so that she could be at his bedside .

The machines supported Gerry – ventilator, ECMO, pumps and drips. He had a special bed and special care. He was conscious, and able to speak for a short time each day. We all willed him to survive; prayed for improvement. He fought for 10 weeks, Kate by his side and Deb in support. The team at the Royal Brompton Hospital Intensive Care Unit used every ounce of their superb expertise in their attempt to repair him.

Then came the utterly devastating news that Gerry’s lungs could never work again. The machines were all that was keeping him alive and the situation was not sustainable.Our friend – Kate’s forever love – passed away on 5th April with Kate by his side.

Read Kate and Gerry's story here.

Saying farewell

Kate is planning a finale for Gerry on 27th April at 12.30 at Weston Crematorium, followed by a gathering at the Commodore Hotel in Kewstoke. All who knew Gerry are welcome to come along. He was a Scot and his favourite colour was pale pink, so, if you wish, feel free to wear pink or tartan in his honour.

As his friends know, Gerry was an avid photographer. Kate and Deb would love it if you could bring along a photo taken by him - or of him - to display on the memory table at the Commodore.

Donations are still very welcome; the money raised since Gerry died will go to the Royal Brompton Hospital. A memory tree  is located in the main corridor of the hospital and is seen by many patients, staff and visitors every day. Money is raised by sponsoring a leaf on the tree.

Kate would like add a leaf for Gerry.

Thanks again for your support and donations. Kate will never forget your generosity.