Derbyshire mental health Counsellor has died after contracting Covid-19
A mental health counsellor from Leicester has died after contracting coronavirus.
Ann Shepherd, 80, worked in mental health services across Derbyshire for 26 years. Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust say they've lost a "highly valued and inspirational Counsellor."
Mrs Shepherd had underlying health conditions and contracted Covid-19, from which she sadly died of in hospital earlier this week.
Staff at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said Ann was a wonderful colleague and she was held in very high esteem by everyone she worked with. She has been described as being "truly devoted to her work and her patients".
Ifti Majid, Chief Executive of Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said: “She was a phenomenal character, full of colour and sparkle. Ann always made time for members of her team. I understand that even after her provisional diagnosis of COVID-19 Ann would call to check if colleagues were ok and if they need any support."
“Ann was a true professional, who touched the lives of many. She made a tremendous difference to a lot of people’s lives and she was highly respected by patients and colleagues alike."
"Ann is a very sad loss to the Trust and those she worked alongside at Moir Medical Centre. My thoughts are with Ann’s family, her many friends and colleagues at this very sad time.”
Staff at Moir Medical Centre have also paid tribute to their colleague and friend. They said: “The team at Moir Medical Centre are deeply saddened by the loss of Ann. Based at the Moir Medical Centre for over 26 years Ann was an integral and highly regarded member of our team."
“Ann was more than a work colleague. Her support for other members of the practice team and her contribution to life within the practice was outstanding. She could always be relied upon for honest and compassionate advice for patients and staff."
“She had a huge impact on her patients who would speak favourably of their treatment with her for years afterwards. Her enthusiasm for her work was an inspiration to all. She will be sincerely missed.”