The family of a beloved mum and grandmother who tragically died of Covid-19 has fundraised thousands for St Helier.

Kailas Patel, 66, contracted coronavirus and sadly passed away on February 10, 2021.

After she passed, her family decided to launch a fundraiser for the Intensive Care Unit who tried "so hard to save her".

Kailas three children, Kinjal, Binti and Anish say they wanted to honour their mothers memory whilst thanking the ICU staff.

“While mum was in Intensive Care, we would phone multiple times a day and sometimes late at night to speak to her, or get an update," said Kinjal.

"Without fail, the nurses were always so kind, compassionate and patient.

"We were able to hold our mother as she took her final breaths and for that we will be eternally grateful.

"The money we raise will go towards providing critical care to all those who need it especially during these difficult times.

"The staff were really human about it. We can’t thank them enough.”

Kailas Patel

Kailas Patel

The fundraiser raised over £5000 within a matter of days.

Kinjal added: “It just goes to show how special my mother was and how much she meant to so many people, even though I don’t think she realised it.

"She was a phenomenal and renowned Gujarati home-cook. People travelled from near and far for her cooking and she was regularly asked to help out with catering at weddings.

"She was always smiling, so welcoming and easy going.”

Chief Executive of Epsom and St Helier Hospitals Charity, Daniel Elkeles, said: “On behalf of the Trust, I would like to pass our heartfelt condolences to Kailas’ family and loved ones.

"It is remarkable that, in a time of profound grief, Kailas’ children have found the strength to fundraise for the department where their mum was cared for.

"I would like to say a huge thank you to the whole family, and to everyone who has donated so far. It is incredibly generous.”

Dr Viplaw Shukla, Consultant Intensivist, said: “We are immensely grateful for the generosity of Kailas Patel’s family and friends.

"Of course, like them, we very much wish Kailas was still with us. However, their fundraising is a wonderful testament to the ICU teams and for the care and commitment they provide for their patients.

"Kailas was a strong woman only in her sixties, and yet Covid was still able to take her despite our best efforts.

"Therefore, we absolutely implore everyone take up the vaccine as soon as it’s offered, especially among BAME communities."

Donations reached £5,227 at the time of publishing.

If you would like to donate visit here.