Woman dies after both her and her husband were hospitalised with coronavirus on same day

Carol and Harvey Kleiman were both admitted to St James' Hospital in Leeds on Wednesday April 1, but were transferred to separate wards.

Great-grandmother Mrs Kleiman, 78, was moved straight to ICU, according to stepdaughter Frances Flaxington.

The couple, due to celebrate their 40th anniversary in September, were able to see each other one last time as they passed each other in a hospital corridor while being transferred to separate wards, Ms Flaxington said.

Mrs Kleiman sadly passed away from the infection four days later, on April, Sunday 5.

Mr Kleiman, 83, was told over the phone by his daughter that his wife had passed away, and was "left reeling" from the news.

He has since been discharged from hospital and allowed to return to his home in Moortown, Leeds, but is unable to receive visitors apart from a carer.

His daughter Ms Flaxington said: “I had to tell my father over the phone that Carol had passed away. He was in there on his own and I couldn’t be there to hold his hand.

“It was just devastating to hear my father break down over the phone. He was reeling from the news.”

A traditional Jewish ritual of Shiva prayers were held for Mrs Kleiman over the video chat platform Zoom for around 200 people following her death.

"It was actually quite nice to have people present who wouldn't otherwise be able to be there," Ms Flaxington added.

"We had family in Australia who were able to join.

"Carol was a total shopaholic and she loved going out to the theatre and to the ballet. My dad spoiled her, and she looked after him in return.

"She has a great-grandson she will never see."

Mrs Kleiman also leaves behind a son, Ian, three great-grand-children, six grandchildren, step-daughters Sue and Tracey and her sister, Irene.

A Crowdfunder has been set up to raise money for treats for NHS staff as a tribute to Carol's memory, which has so far raised more than £3,000. You can donate here.