My man was 44 & healthy but collapsed & died – I was pregnant with our 6th baby & am begging strangers for help
Amanda Conlon, 40, is hoping to raise £200,000 to pay off her mortgage after her partner Clint Robinson, 44, died from a
9
Amanda Conlon was left heartbroken after partner Clint Robinson died from a stroke in July 2024
Credit: SWNS
9
Amanda is now a single mum of six and fears losing her home
Credit: SWNS
9
Clint died suddenly from a stroke while gardening
Credit: SWNS
Clint was out tending to his vegetable patch on a sunny Thursday morning when he came stumbling inside asking his pregnant partner for help.
Amanda said: "While I rang 999 he was still able to talk a little bit - they were asking what happened and he said he'd got a headache and went dizzy.
"He went to call our two year old, and he said her name wouldn't come out of his mouth."
Clint was rushed by ambulance to Scunthorpe
General Hospital
's stroke unit where he complained that he was unable to feel the left side of his body.
More on families
Amanda, who rushed to the hospital in pursuit of her partner, says a nurse told her she should return home to allow Clint to rest, and had assured her he'd be back to normal by the following day.
When she tried to return to the hospital at 8pm, however, she was told she wasn't allowed to visit her partner of 24 years - but she was assured he was fine.
The following morning, however, her worst nightmares came true - doctors said Clint was only responding to touch and that a bleed on his brain had continued overnight.
He was taken to intensive care, but Amanda had to make the difficult decision to turn off his life support after 10 days when she was told there was 'no activity' in his brain.
Most read in Fabulous
Amanda feels like her last hours with her partner, whom she was planning to marry
next
year, were taken away from her due to the hospital's decision to bar her from visiting.
She said: "I called at midnight and they said 'he's fine, he's been asking for you quite a lot but he's gone to sleep now', I said 'please can I come and sit with him then'.
How to check your pulse, for risk of stroke
"I just feel like they took that away from me - any time I could have had left with him, they took it away because they told me he was going to be fine."
MORTGAGE WORRIES
To make matters worse, the mortgage on the couple's home was entirely in Clint's name, and the qualified joiner was without life
insurance
after cancelling it over financial difficulties during the Covid
pandemic
.
The distraught mum was told her home could face repossession if she is unable to remortgage or pay the home off in full.
9
Clint with one of his daughters
Credit: SWNS
9
Clint was taken to intensive care, but Amanda had to make the difficult decision to turn off his life support after 10 days when she was told there was 'no activity' in his brain
Credit: SWNS
9
Amanda has little help raising her kids
Credit: SWNS
Orphaned at nine years old, Amanda, who works as a teacher trainer, doesn't have any parents she can rely on for financial help.
Now, the single mum, whose children are aged 20, 15, eight, three, one, and five months, has set up an
Writing on the GoFundMe page, she said: "I still can't find the words for what it felt like to stand there holding my children while telling them their daddy was never coming home. I still hear their cries at night. I still can't believe this is real life.
9
The distraught mum was told her home could face repossession if she is unable to remortgage or pay the home off in full
Credit: SWNS
9
Amanda has been left to raise their six kids alone
Credit: SWNS
"Now I'm here, I've given birth to our youngest daughter without him by my side. A single mum with six children — three of them under the age of 3.
"I have a newborn baby in my arms, and I'm trying to hold everyone together with no partner, no parents, no grandparents for my children.
"I can't work right now — I'm home with three babies under three, doing every feed, every bath, every sleepless night alone. And at the same time, I'm trying to grieve a man I can't even begin to live without."
MONEY PLEA
9
Amanda has launched a GoFundMe page to help with her mortgage
Credit: SWNS
Amanda has currently raised over £15,000 - a large sum, but under 10 per cent of the
target
.
She said: "The amount I'm trying to raise is a substantial amount - I don't want anyone to think 'oh, wouldn't we all like our mortgage to be paid'.
"The reason why I've done it is because I think if I died tomorrow then my children have got a home - it would be my oldest daughter who would need to look after them.
"If anything were to happen to me, they would have that security.
I can't work right now — I'm home with three babies under three, doing every feed, every bath, every sleepless night alone. And at the same time, I'm trying to grieve a man I can't even begin to live without
Amanda Conlon
"If everybody just put in £1, if 200,000 people put in £1 that would make all the difference.
"I'm not asking anybody for a large amount, I don't even like asking anybody for anything, but I've always helped people and Clint has always helped people. He always told the children that if anybody needs help, it's really important to help."
Northern
Lincolnshire
and Goole
NHS
Foundation Trust has been contacted for comment.
What are the symptoms of stroke?
The FAST method – which stands for Face, Arms, Speech, Time – is the easiest way to remember the most common symptoms of stroke:
F
= Face drooping - if one side of a person's face is dropped or numb then ask them to smile, if it's uneven then you should seek help.
A
= Arm weakness - if one arm is weak or numb then you should ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downwards then you might need to get help
S
= Speech difficulty - if a person's speech is slurred then this could be a sign of a stroke
T
= Time to call 999 - if a person has the signs above then you need to call 999 in the UK or 911 in the US for emergency care.
Other symptoms include:
sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
difficulty finding words
sudden blurred vision or loss of sight
sudden confusion, dizziness or unsteadiness
a sudden and severe headache
difficulty understanding what others are saying
difficulty swallowing
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Irish Sun
15 minutes ago
- The Irish Sun
I've lost 5 stone on Mounjaro but have a ‘painful', ‘burning' side effect no one talks about – it's driving me crazy
A WOMAN who dropped five stone using Mounjaro has warned other users of a 'painful' side effect that's making her life hell. Ann, who shares her weight loss journey on TikTok, opened up about her lesser-known struggle after taking the popular jab for 40 weeks. 2 A tiktoker has shared her rarely discussed Mounjaro side-effect 2 Ann has lost five stones on Mounjaro Credit: @beingann She says the treatment, which has helped thousands shed serious weight, has left her with extreme skin sensitivity that feels like 'burning' and 'sandpaper'. And despite trawling the internet for answers, she says there's little info on it and wants others to speak up if they're suffering too. In the video, she explained: 'I've been on Mounjaro for 40 weeks and lost about five stone. "But one thing I'm really struggling with is this skin sensitivity. It's a side effect that just isn't spoken about.' Read more on mounjaro Anne described the sensation as 'painful and 'It feels like someone's taken sandpaper to my skin,' she said. She claims the pain, which is on the outside and back of her thigh, hip and knee, is extremely painful, driving her crazy. She added that it's so bad, she can't sleep properly because the discomfort keeps her up at night. Most read in Fabulous While she initially thought it could be linked to her injection site, she recently switched from stomach to thigh and the pain appeared on the opposite side, ruling that out. I went on fat jabs but the hair loss was unbelievable so I quit - I'd rather be chubby with hair than skinny and bald The comment section lit up with others saying they'd experienced similar but, like Anne, couldn't find much official guidance. One fellow user said: 'Yes, I've had it too. It's not spoken about enough!' And Ann's not the only one raising the alarm. Other TikTokers have reported soreness, itching, and acne since starting Mounjaro, with many saying they feel 'hypersensitive' in the sun. In fact, one Mounjaro user recently warned followers to up their SPF game this summer as the drug can make your skin more prone to burning. That's why experts are urging anyone on GLP-1 meds like Mounjaro or Ozempic to step up their sun protection game. Skincare brand HydroPeptide has dropped a high-end range of SPFs packed with peptides and soothing ingredients to shield sensitive skin. Their Or there's If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option Superdrug now stocks It's already earning rave reviews for being an on-the-go SPF essential. Meanwhile, skincare brand Image has launched the first ever GLP-1-friendly moisturiser designed to tackle so-called 'Ozempic face' to help fix the gaunt, sagging skin look. So if you're shedding the pounds but feeling the burn in more ways than one, you're not alone. Ann says she's speaking out in the hopes that others will share their experiences too and get the support they need. Because when it comes to Mounjaro, weight loss might be the headline but for some, the side effects are the real story. Meanwhile, experts are getting candid on a complication that might shock many. From eggy burps to stomach-churning nausea, there appears to be an What to do if you lose too much weight too quickly whilst on Mounjaro IF you're losing too much weight too quickly while on Mounjaro, it's important to take action to avoid potential health risks like muscle loss, malnutrition, dehydration, and fatigue. Here's what you can do: Evaluate Your Caloric Intake Mounjaro reduces appetite, which can make it easy to eat too little. If you're losing weight too fast (more than two to three lbs per week after the initial adjustment period), try: Tracking your food intake to ensure you're eating enough calories (apps like MyFitnessPal can help). Increasing protein intake to preserve muscle mass (aim for 0.6–1g per pound of body weight). Adding healthy fats and complex carbs (e.g., avocados, nuts, whole grains) for balanced energy. Adjust Your Dosage (With Doctor's Approval) If your weight loss is too rapid or causing side effects, your doctor may: Pause dose increases or lower your dosage. Adjust your treatment plan to stabilise your weight loss. Strength Training & Exercise To prevent muscle loss: Incorporate resistance training at least two to three times per week. Stay active with low-impact exercises like walking or yoga. Hydrate & Manage Electrolytes Drink enough water (Mounjaro can reduce thirst). Electrolytes matter - Consider adding magnesium, sodium, and potassium if you feel weak or fatigued. Monitor for Malnutrition & Deficiencies Rapid weight loss can cause vitamin/mineral deficiencies (especially B12, iron, and electrolytes). If you experience: Fatigue, hair loss, or dizziness, ask your doctor about supplements. Consider Further Medical Guidance If your weight loss is excessive or causing health concerns, speak with your healthcare provider. They might adjust your dosage, diet, or exercise plan to help stabilise your weight loss.
The Irish Sun
16 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
I've been on Mounjaro for 5 months – my bank balance is depleting but I've hardly lost ANY weight, it's not a quick fix
WHEN you invest in yourself, you want to see results quickly. And one woman who is spending hundreds on Advertisement 3 Nat was left feeling unmotivated after spending five months on the jab Credit: 3 Despite seeing lots of success stories, Nat felt she wasn't having the same experience Credit: Getty Nat, from the UK, took to social media to share her frustration with the weight loss jab and the lack of weight she had lost since she started taking it five months ago. She said: " Looking for some support, Nat said she was gutted she wasn't having the same results after only losing 1.5st in the last five months. She continued: "I really thought after five months of being on it that I'd have something to show for it, and I don't. Advertisement READ MORE ON WEIGHT LOSS JABS "I'm losing motivation and my bank balance is (throat-slit hand gesture). She asked those who were also slow responders to the weight loss drug to share their success stories to keep her motivated. Nat said she carries her weight in 'strange places' so despite losing over a stone, she couldn't tell the difference. "So if anyone's in the same position or it was slow and now it's like gone fast or if they've got any tips and tricks, please help me out," she pleaded. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous "Because yeah, like I said, my bank balance is done and I am losing the will to live." Nat's video was a reminder that the weight loss jab is not a quick fix as many took to the comments to share they had similar experiences. 3 Ive been on Mounjaro for 5 months – my bank balance is depleting but I've hardly lost ANY weight, it's not a quick fix, Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk I've lost nearly 6 stone in 9 months on fat jabs - trolls call me 'lazy' & say it's the 'easy way out' but I don't care The clip went viral on her account @ One person wrote: "I've been on Mounjaro for 3 weeks but have lost nothing." Advertisement Another commented: "I'm on mounjaro and the weight is coming off slowly and yes, like you I did feel a little disheartened, but it's coming off and I'm not constantly thinking about food like I would be normally." "Started end of January. lost 2 and a half stone. The last month lost NOTHING," penned a third. What are the other side effects of weight loss jabs? Like any medication, weight loss jabs can have side effects. Common side effects of injections such as Ozempic include: Nausea : This is the most commonly reported side effect, especially when first starting the medication. It often decreases over time as your body adjusts. Vomiting : Can occur, often in conjunction with nausea. Diarrhea : Some people experience gastrointestinal upset. Constipation : Some individuals may also experience constipation. Stomach pain or discomfort : Some people may experience abdominal pain or discomfort. Reduced appetite : This is often a desired effect for people using Ozempic for weight loss. Indigestion : Can cause a feeling of bloating or discomfort after eating. Serious side effects can also include: Pancreatitis : In rare cases, Ozempic may increase the risk of inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, which can cause severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Kidney problems : There have been reports of kidney issues, including kidney failure, though this is uncommon. Thyroid tumors : There's a potential increased risk of thyroid cancer, although this risk is based on animal studies. It is not confirmed in humans, but people with a history of thyroid cancer should avoid Ozempic. Vision problems : Rapid changes in blood sugar levels may affect vision, and some people have reported blurry vision when taking Ozempic. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) : Especially if used with other medications like sulfonylureas or insulin. Meanwhile, a fourth said: "Slow and steady is good. I'm the same though, always want to lose quickly." "It works a bit slower on some people you've just got to stick with it but you will lose,' claimed a fifth Advertisement Someone else added: "I'm thinking of coming off it for a month and restarting from scratch."
The Irish Sun
19 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
Top 8 hacks to help you sleep peacefully during hot weather — and why you should never take a cold shower
AS the UK swelters through one of the hottest starts to summer on record, with highs of 34°C scorching parts of England, many of us are finding it impossible to get a good night's sleep. And while a 2 Dr Sophie Bostock, a leading sleep specialist revealed why cold showers and baths "are the worst" way to keep cool in hot weather Credit: TIKTOK/THISMORNING Dr Sophie Bostock, a leading sleep specialist, explained the key to nodding off and staying asleep is by managing your body temperature. Appearing on ITV's This Morning, she said: 'Our core temperature naturally drops in the evening, and that dip is what helps trigger sleep. 'But when the air around us is too warm, the body struggles to release heat, making it much harder to drift off. "And even once we're asleep, it tends to be lighter and less refreshing.' Read more on Fabulous She adds that hot nights not only reduce deep sleep, which restores the body, but also cut into 'That's why you often wake up feeling groggy, grumpy, and like you've barely slept.' 1. The "ideal" sleep temperature The ideal temperature for sleep, she says, is somewhere between 15°C and 20°C — just cooler than a typical room. But staying in that range during a heatwave takes a bit of strategy. Most read in Fabulous Older adults and those going through menopause are especially vulnerable to sleep disruption during hot weather. Five ways to keep babies cool in the heat "As we age, the body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature,' says Dr Bostock. 'And anyone experiencing hot flushes or night sweats is likely to find them worse during extreme heat.' Research also suggests that people with 2. Increase airflow To make your bedroom more bearable, airflow is crucial. The expert added: "The goal is to create a breeze. 'If you can, sleep downstairs — heat rises, so ground floor rooms tend to stay cooler. "Keep curtains or blinds closed during the day to block out sunlight, and open windows in the evening to let cooler air in.' 3. Stay hydrated Staying hydrated is also key: 'We cool ourselves through sweating, so drink regularly throughout the day to support that process." 4. No cold showers But whatever you do, avoid plunging into icy water before bed the Doctor said: 'A cold shower gives your body a shock. "Your blood vessels constrict, trapping heat inside instead of releasing it. 'A lukewarm shower is much better. It encourages blood flow to the skin, and as you step out and evaporate, it helps you cool down naturally.' 5. Swap your bedding Swapping out your bedding can also help; ditch heavy duvets and opt for light sheets made from breathable, natural fibres like cotton or linen. 'Separate covers also help regulate individual temperatures if you share a bed,' she adds. 6. Try a homemade air-con unit For extra relief, try using a fan alongside a bowl of ice water to circulate cooler air around the room. Cooling mattress toppers and gel pillow inserts can also make a noticeable difference. How to keep cool in hot weather Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it's too hot, there are health risks. Here are three ways to keep cool according to the NHS... Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter. Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes. Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep. 'They're designed to absorb heat and prevent it building up around your body.' 7. Chill your forehead A lesser-known trick is cooling the forehead. 'There's early research suggesting that applying coolness to the forehead can reduce brain activity, helping you wind down,' says Dr Bostock. A chilled eye mask or a cold flannel can be surprisingly effective. 8. Descend into darkness And don't forget light. 'To naturally produce melatonin — the hormone that makes us sleepy — you need darkness,' she says. 'Use an eye mask, especially if you're trying to nap during the day.' What about taking naps? Speaking of naps, a short daytime rest can help if you're feeling wiped out — but keep it brief. 'A 20 to 30-minute nap can be refreshing,' she advises. 'Any longer and you risk making it harder to sleep at night.' Above all, try to stay calm if you're struggling to fall asleep. Stressing about it only makes it more difficult. Focus on relaxing your body, keeping cool, and setting the right environment to support your natural sleep cycle. 2 Stock image of a woman struggling to sleep in the heat Credit: GETTY
