Tributes paid to much-loved Hartlepool mum of three who lost fight for life after contracting coronavirus aged just 40

Family and friends of Donna Gough have been left shocked and heartbroken at her loss after contracting Covid-19, which has now claimed more than 20,000 UK lives.

Donna, of Dyke House, was a much-loved mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, wife and friend.

Her sister Mandy Draper said she doted on her family, including her daughters Shannon, 21, Chloe, 20, Nicole, 16, and husband Johnny.

A GoFundMe page created by Mandy has so far raised almost £3,000 towards Donna’s funeral costs and give her the send off she deserves.

Mandy said: “She was just so kind and caring. She adored her kids and her husband and absolutely lived for them.

“They are trying to be strong for each other but are devastated. We all are.

“She was a lovely person.”

Donna, who had asthma, passed away at the university Hospital of North Tees on Wednesday, April 22, around three weeks after she was admitted with breathing difficulties.

A test for Covid-19 was positive and she sadly developed pneumonia.

Donna spent two weeks in intensive care in an induced coma on a ventilator as medics fought to save her, while large numbers of her family and friends prayed for her to get better.

Mandy added: “We thought she was getting past it and was picking up. But next day she took really bad.

“That’s when they put her on a ventilator.”

Donna, who also had two grandchildren, was part of a big family and also leaves behind sister Lisa Bain, brother Geoffrey, mum Elaine Smailes, stepdad Ronnie Smailes, and dad Geoff Rowley.

Friends and loved ones have rallied round to help Donna’s family at this difficult time by donating to the online fund.

Due to her young age Donna did not have life insurance.

Mandy added: “I want them to be able to give her a send off that she deserves without the worry and stress about the cost too.

“It’s amazing how much people have given.

“Everyone loved her.”

Anyone who wishes to donate can visit ‘Donna Gough’s family’ at GoFundMe

Related: Two more patients die in Hartlepool’s NHS hospital trust

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