Dad’s ‘brutal and heartbreaking’ final days
A RUGBY player whose father died with coronavirus has described his “brutal and heartbreaking” final days in hospital.
Dennis Laurence Pearson, 70, of Rhymney, died on Tuesday after spending six days at Prince Charles Hospital.
His son Lee Pearson, a former semiprofessional rugby player for Bargoed RFC, has spoken of his father’s care and issued a warning to those ignoring the lockdown rules.
Lee said: “Please anybody who isn’t taking this virus seriously start now.
“My mother was called to say goodbye to him in the early hours of Tuesday morning but he fought hard until late afternoon.
“Due to this terrible virus my dad has been allowed no visitors including my mother. My mother has been at home worrying on her own for six days being told to expect the worst.”
Lee said his father’s death should be a reminder to anyone who breaks the lockdown rules.
He said: “For any of you still thinking of breaking the distancing guidelines let me tell you that the brutal treatment my dad has been going through this past six days was heartbreaking and wouldn’t wish it on anyone.
“Just remember, however much your missing your friends, family, jobs or hobbies that when all this blows over you can go back to them. I however will never see my dad again because of the awful virus.
“Dad fought until the end to stay with us as he loves his family so much but this virus doesn’t care for nobody.”
Lee added his father “loved his family” and said NHS staff were doing an “unbelievable job”.
He said: “Not only are they working long hours fighting to save our loved does but they’re going home to their loved ones putting them at risk also.
“We will forever be grateful for the way they tried keeping dad here with us.”