In this tender and bittersweet episode of Stolen Goodbyes, Karen Rice speaks with Victoria Daniels, 25, from Hertfordshire, about her cherished memories of her late father, David, a jack the lad and an animal-loving man, who tragically died from COVID-19 on January 2, 2021, at the age of just 69.

Although her father suffered two strokes and dementia before the pandemic, Victoria’s words reveal the enduring bond between them. She recalls David’s protective and caring nature, likening him to his favourite animal, the elephant—known for their fierce loyalty and devotion to family.

Victoria shares the profound difficulties of caregiving, including her father’s loss of mobility and sight, and the anguish she felt knowing he was COVID-free until being hospitalised in the pandemic. She recounts the confusion and fear her dad experienced in the hospital and the unresolved pain of Watford General Hospital denying that he contracted COVID-19 in their care.

After years of anger and grief, Victoria has embraced new love and joy in her life. She is now engaged to her partner, Vincent, who shares heartwarming similarities with her father, such as his infectious laugh, strength, and love of cuddles. Victoria reflects on the bittersweet nature of finding love after loss—feeling her father’s absence in her life and at her upcoming wedding but honouring his memory with his favourite white roses.

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