AN ELDERLY Llangollen woman who was sent home from hospital in freezing conditions wearing thin nightwear is beginning to improve.
Eunice Williams, 86, of Hafryn, Garth, near Llangollen, was discharged from Wrexham Maelor Hospital six days after being admitted with pneumonia.
To the horror of her family she arrived home wearing only a nightie and a thin dressing gown, despite having supplied warm winter clothing.
Her health deteriorated for the first few days and Mrs Williams’ family believed this was a result of her journey home.
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board apologised for not ensuring she was dressed adequately when she was collected by the ambulance.
The story provoked outrage among Leader readers who criticised the hospital and sent their best wishes to Mrs Williams via our website, LeaderLive.
Kelloggs51 said: “Why was it beyond the intelligence of nursing staff to dress this poor woman properly? I presume they get quite a few cases of hypothermia in the elderly through their doors in winter. It’s beyond belief.
“My best wishes to the lady herself and also her family.”
Daisymay wrote: “I truly wish that I could say I was shocked but I honestly can’t. Two relatives this year have had bad experiences, both just needed common sense not nursing qualifications.
“I pray this lady’s health improves and I feel for the elderly without family or friends to look out for them.”
Some readers sympathised with hospital staff and said the incident was an exception, not the rule.
Jc021 said: “Sadly they got it wrong but how many times have they got it right and nobody gets to hear about it?”
“You are quite right, we don’t always give praise where it is due,” daisymay replied
Mrs Williams’ niece Mary Douglas, of Peris, Acrefair, thanked readers for their support and said her aunt’s health was now improving slowly. She said: “She was really bad for the first few days, especially after her electric heating broke. The cold really got into her. But she’s doing a bit better now. She spent Christmas with us which she really enjoyed so hopefully she’s on the mend.”