Leeds Covid shielder's care package gifts to thank NHS staff

Claire Wiggins, 41, suffers from a range of health problems - including arthritis and Fibromyalgia - and said she lives in constant pain.

Claire said she has relied on NHS hospitals in Leeds and Harrogate for care and treatment since she was a child.

She is creating care packages for hospital staff and is seeking donations of items including toiletries, books, puzzles, sweets, socks, gloves, scarves or other small gifts.

Claire said: "Since I was 11 years old I have relied on the NHS for my care.

"I am forever thankful for all they do, especially at this time.

"There are hundreds of staff working tirelessly through the pandemic away from home, families, working long hours, and I want to put together some care packages.

"I go on a regular basis for my appointments. I have been shielding for 11 months now. I want to pay them back."

She added: "I find helping others takes my mind off my chronic pain. I find it therapeutic and need to try and keep busy."

Last year Claire, of Boston Spa near Wetherby, made pamper hampers for GPs and nurses.

Claire, who has been fundraising since she was aged 16, said she has raised around £60,000 for charities and good causes over the past 25 years.

Her fundraising activities have included taking a zip line ride off the Tyne Bridge in Newcastle and walking the Sheffield Half Marathon.

Charities to benefit from her fundraising include Ovarian Cancer Research and Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust.

Claire was named Yorkshire Community Hero in 2010 and carried the Olympic torch through Tadcaster in 2012.

Claire said: "I know times are very hard for all right now, however I am contacting businesses and am looking for donations of items to go inside the care packages."

Anyone who can help Claire is asked to email her at: [email protected]