Friendship bridges the decades for Ethel and Grace
A former Second World War nurse has got to grips with video calling technology during the coronavirus lockdown.
Ethel Lote, 99, learnt how to video call as a way of keeping in touch with loved ones and friends during the pandemic.
Ethel worked at the Burntwood Military Hospital between 1940 and 1946 and treated the first convoy of Dunkirk soldiers coming back from the beaches.
She was partnered up with trainee mental health nurse Grace Anderton, 27, as part of a Royal British Legion (RBL) scheme to bring people together during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ethel, who will be 100 in November, said: “Before having to isolate, I was still giving talks to those who wanted to know more about my experiences of treating those that came back from the war in Europe, having been a nurse at the local military hospital.
“Therefore, although I have been stuck at home, having Grace calling me up and other members ensuring I am OK has been really appreciated.
“I have even learnt to video chat thanks to my son’s help and managed to speak face-to-face with Grace, which was just lovely.”
Grace added : “Ethel is truly amazing! I could listen to her stories for hours when we talk and it’s lovely to discuss how different her training was in wartime compared to my current experience.
“I always look forward to my call with her and I feel it’s not only beneficial for Ethel in having someone to call her – but for me too during such uncertain times.”
