Hexham man's devotion is rewarded

Posted by The Journal on Oct 31, 08 01:56 PM in News

A MAN who has dedicated the past six years of his life to caring for his severely brain-damaged wife has been nominated for a national award.

Ron Payne, 65, from the Hexham area, is one of three finalists from across the UK competing for the title of Carer of the Year in the Headway Annual Awards 2008.

Ron and Heather Payne

Seven years ago, having just returned from a holiday in Spain, Ron's wife Heather began to complain of a pain in her leg, which had become cold and discoloured.

After hospital tests, she was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and doctors set about fixing the problem by inserting a filter into her neck.

A medical blunder caused an internal bleed in her neck, which led to her airway being cut off, followed by lung and heart failure.

It took 20 minutes to revive her but she suffered brain damage, was left with epilepsy and is now confined to a wheelchair. She also has weakness down the left-hand side of her body and memory problems.

Ron has dedicated his life to caring for Heather and helping other people in the region affected by brain injury.

Last year, he played a leading role in forming Headway Tynedale - a local branch of the national charity that works to improve life after brain injury.

He said: "Forty one years ago, we said our wedding vows in church and promised to love and care for each other in sickness and in health. That's just what I'm doing and I know Heather would do the same for me."

Penny Wilkinson, committee member of Headway Tynedale, said: "Ron has shown complete and utter devotion to caring for Heather.

"He has shown unfaltering love in the face of incredible adversity. We are all very proud of him and believe his selflessness deserves to be recognised."

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