By Woman thanks people of Grimsby for their “compassion and kindness” after collapsing in street
An elderly woman has spoken out via her daughter-in-law to thank the people of Grimsby for their “compassion and kindness” after she collapsed outside the Women’s Aid charity shop on Hainton Square.
Shirley, 86, was out Christmas shopping with two family members, Beth and Elaine, on Wednesday 10 November when her legs gave way and she fell to the ground.
Shirley’s daughter-in-law, Linda, told Gi Media: “They were outside the charity shop going back to Asda when Elaine put her arms out so they could both take one.
“My mum (Beth) took one arm and Elaine turned to see where Shirley was to see her sliding down the widow of the shop to the floor.”
Linda said the charity shop staff ran out onto the street and attempted to move Shirley into the shop, but that her legs had “completely gone” and they were unable to move her.
The staff then brought out quilts and pillows to keep Shirley as warm as possible as she waited for an ambulance.
Linda said: “Luckily just as Shirley fell, an off-duty doctor who works at the hospital was passing, and came over to assist.”
She said the doctor remained by Shirley’s side for two-and-a-quarter hours until the ambulance arrived.
“She never left her side sitting with her on the cold pavement,” Linda said.
“The doctor was joined by her husband and son who went to the shops and brought back drinks and food for us all, and wouldn’t take a penny.
“Nearly everyone who passed stopped and asked if they could help in any way. The kindness and concern was incredible.
“A patient transport ambulance stopped to offer assistance but weren’t allowed to take my mum to hospital. The police stopped again to offer help, and a car full of carers emptied their car to try and get Shirley in the back to get her to hospital but we couldn’t move her.
“The ambulance eventually arrived and took Shirley to hospital where she stayed overnight. She was terrified of hospitals, never being admitted to one since she gave birth to her son over sixty years ago. But due to the care from the paramedics doctors and nurses at Grimsby Hospital, her fear has gone.”
Shirley underwent several tests in hospital following the incident, but Linda said they came back all clear and that Shirley is “doing well”.
Linda continued: “Shirley and her family would like to thank the people of Grimsby for their compassion and kindness which was above and beyond.
“They should be so proud of themselves as we are.”
