Patrick Brennan (9 Jun 1935 - 22 Dec 2019)

In loving memory of Patrick Brennan who sadly passed away on 22nd December 2019
Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad, Husband and Friend.

In mid November 2019, Grandad Paddy travelled over from his home in Ireland to visit his family in Surrey over the festive season, as he did every year.

One week into his stay he fell ill and was taken to Epsom Hospital. He was soon diagnosed with a stroke caused by a blood clot and was given immediate medication and care. He managed to stay positive and independent despite the stroke affecting the left side of his brain and subsequently his speech and understanding. He was even able to keep a sense of humour as he navigated his way through muddled speech.

A few days later, whilst resting in hospital, Paddy suffered a second stroke (this time affecting the right side of his brain) Our family were told it would be a critical 48 hours.

The amazing staff at Epsom hospital took great care of Grandad Paddy and supported our dad and auntie through an emotionally tumultuous time. There is no doubt that the team on the stroke ward care hugely, not only for patients, but also for their loved ones. Nurses would often come into the side room to ask how our dad and auntie were, bring in refreshments and prompt them to take care of their own needs too (whether it be to get some fresh air, a couple of hours sleep or a bite to eat) We cannot sing their praises highly enough. What wonderful people; working extraordinarily hard within such an emotionally charged environment.

Grandad Paddy never fully recovered from the second stroke; suffering further complications. The hospital staff ensured that Paddy was comfortable in a side room on the ward and palliative care was put in place. His privacy and dignity were respected and upheld to the highest standard at all times. Staff on the stroke ward went above and beyond to ensure that Grandad's final days were uninterrupted, pain-free and peaceful. Paddy passed away peacefully in the early hours of Sunday 22nd December 2019.

As we arrange a fitting celebration of Paddy's life, our family have requested that rather than flowers, donations be made to the Epsom Hospital stroke unit so they can continue the training and resources required to provide the outstanding care that they provided for Paddy.

Our family will be forever appreciative of the care Grandad Paddy and our family recieved. Any donations to this cause would be a wonderful tribute to Paddy.