Why I’m glad Mum isn’t alive

I was devastated when my mother, Madge, died two years ago, after suffering a stroke in her care home. Not a day has gone by since then when I haven’t missed her unbearably, wishing for just one more hug or smile. But that changed when the coronavirus arrived. It pains me to say it, and I feel guilty for even thinking it, but I now find myself thankful that my adored mum is no longer alive.

‘We clung to each other for comfort’

Death during the pandemic would have been unbearable and my heart goes out to the families whose relatives