A COCKFIELD mother is hosting a final fundraiser in memory of her son to say thanks to the hospital staff who cared for him.
Over the years, Lisa Wood has raised thousands of pounds for a variety of good causes. Her latest plans come following the death of her disabled son, Matthew, who passed away last April.
The 21-year-old had severe complex needs and epilepsy and required round-the-clock care. He became unwell with pancreatitis in March last year and was admitted to Darlington Memorial Hospital, where he remained for almost five weeks.
He was also diagnosed with pneumonia and sepsis. Matthew died as a result of multiple organ failure on April 12 with his loved ones at his hospital bedside. Ms Wood and Matthew’s older sister, Jade Kirby, are holding an event this month to say thanks to hospital staff who they say tried so hard to save Matthew. Ms Wood said: “We are doing this event in memory of Matthew. Matthew loved a good party. He loved music and loved dancing.
“We want to give something back to the intensive care unit at Darlington Memorial Hospital for what they did for us. The staff there were amazing. They do not get the credit they deserve. They looked after me and Jade as well as Matthew. They tried absolutely everything they could to save him.”
The event will take place at The King’s Head pub, in Cockfield, on Saturday, January 18 – just three days before what would have been Matthew’s 22nd birthday. There will be entertainment by singer JJ Stevens, a raffle and a blind auction. Entry is free. All money raised will be donated to the Intensive Therapy Unit at Darlington Memorial Hospital. More than £600 in donations was also raised at Matthew’s funeral which was given to the unit.
Ms Wood added: “I never thought I would lose Matthew. Our lives have just changed so much. He was our life. It is just horrible. Life is so cruel. I still can’t believe he has gone.”
For more information or to donate raffle prizes contact Ms Wood on 07857 175596 or call in to The King’s Head pub.
