A terminally ill great-gran has celebrated her 81st birthday after beating Coronavirus - despite also having COPD.

Mavis Torrance was given the terrifying news she had the potentially deadly virus on March 31, and cried, fearing it was a death sentence.

She had a high temperature, and was cared for at the Marie Curie Hospice in Glasgow for a month.

But great-grandmother Mavis was able to celebrate her 81st birthday at home in Bishopbriggs, East Dunbartonshire with her daughter Angela Grubb, son-in-law Gus, and grandson Ross, 27.

Mavis, who has terminal oesophageal cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) told the Glasgow Times: "I burst into tears.

"I thought I have so much wrong with me, I'm not going to get through.

"But here I am.

"The hospice were absolutely fabulous, the staff are so caring.

"The minute you walk through the door they do anything for you."

She moved in with Angela last year, but went to the hospice after both her daughter and Gus developed symptoms and self-isolated at home.

The family celebrated Mavis' birthday on April 10 with cake, presents and video calls to family, including her great-grandchildren.

A further celebration is planned once the lockdown lifts.

Angela said: "Mum describes the hospice as a five-star hotel.

"After moving in with us last year, I found it hard to let go of her care, but the staff were all just fantastic.

"She's loved getting back to her wee dog and we are so grateful to have her home.

"Marie Curie is continuing to check in with us and they got us the proper equipment that mum needs at home.

"A proper hospital bed, a rise and fall chair, a portable frame called a Sara Stedy to safely transport her between her rooms and shifting sheets for moving and handling."It's made such a difference."

Irene Johnstone, Marie Curie Hospice manager, said: "We are so happy for Mavis and her family that they've recovered from this devastating virus.

Terminally ill Scottish great-gran celebrates birthday after beating coronavirus

Comments