Family left heartbroken as mum, 33, dies after choking on food whilst cooking
One family have been left utterly heartbroken after a 33-year-old mum tragically died after choking on food while cooking.
Siobhan Rose Simmonds, who hailed from Dover, was found fighting for her life on the floor of her home late last month (24 February) by her two-year-old daughter, her partner and his son.
A fundraiser has since been set up in memory of Siobhan, who was described as a 'tender and loving' mother.
After her family found her, Siobhan was rushed to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford.
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However, after a week spent in intensive care, the family were given the heartbreaking news that she would not recover and she was pronounced dead at the hospital leaving them 'absolutely devastated'.
They've since expressed their pride in Siobhan's decision to donate her organs, saying it was 'the one bit of solace we had'.
She donated her heart, two kidneys, liver, pancreas and both corneas which were subsequently transported to various recipients across the country.
One of Siobhan's eight siblings, Susan Ababte, told KentOnline that the family is 'completely devastated' by the loss but has 'never been more proud'.
She told the outlet: "Siobhan was a very funny child and grew up to be such a funny adult. She always wanted to make people laugh.
"When I walked down to the theatre with her when she donated her organs I have never felt so proud in all my life.
"There was no hesitation from any of the family because we knew it's what she wanted to do."
Despite being a younger mum, Susan said her sister was a 'natural' when it came to parenting.
"Siobhan was such a tender mum," she said. "She was always dancing, playing and teaching her children. She was a natural.
"We are all completely devastated."
Susan added: "We have a lot of siblings but there are none to spare."
A fundraiser has since been set up in memory of the late mum, with the description reading: "We are utterly devastated to share our heartache at losing our blue-eyed girl, Siobhan Rose Simmonds.
"Those of you lucky enough to have met Siobhan will remember the loving nature she inherited from her parents, Bernadett and John.
"The hospital told us that Siobhan elected to donate her organs at least 4 times during her short life. Less than 1,400 people per year donate their organs in the UK. We take solace in the amazing gift you gave Bonnie!
"We can't wait to hear the success stories of people and families whose lives will be transformed from your generosity."
It continued: "Siobhan was a mother to two children, a 14-year-old son whom she adored and a two-year-old daughter who, like her mum, is also a fighter, having been born at only 29 weeks.
"We hope that this fund will contribute to both of their futures and a charity close to our hearts, Mind.
"Siobhan was a naturally caring and special person who with her quirky sense of style loved life and life loved her.
"Her love of music and her wicked sense of humour made her a loveable person. Her courage and thoughtfulness made her deeply cared for by all that knew her."
The fundraiser concluded: "Siobhan would probably hate this post asking for any help with funeral costs but we could really do with anything to help give our Bon the send off she deserves."
You can donate to the fundraiser here.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.
Rhiannon Ingle