Rob Harcourt, from Stockton, dislocated his neck and twisted his spinal cord while at a friend’s house in July – paralyzing him from the chest down. On a fundraising page set up to support his family, Mr Harcourt’s friend Alan Jones posted on Saturday August 20 that loved ones had been invited to say goodbye before doctors removed a tracheostomy that was keeping him alive. Doctors at James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, initially hoped that while he was unlikely to walk again, he would eventually regain consciousness and breathe independently. But Mr Harcourt has since suffered a cardiac arrest and undergone major surgery after doctors found fluid on his brain. A tribute described Rob Harcourt as a “healthy soul”. Credit: Family photo After the sedation was removed after the operation, Mr Harcourt was able to move his eyes but was unable to wake up. Mr Jones wrote: “I’m afraid we have some really, really sad news. Consultants confirmed today that Rob will not recover. “His close friends and family have been invited to say goodbye. Doctors will remove his tracheotomy and he will pass peacefully surrounded and loved by his first and last love – his mom and partner. “Our thoughts are with Rob, Jackie and Jade. Please keep them in your prayers.” One comment said Rob was a “wonderful character” and a “pillar to the Grove Hill community.” The donation page, which was set up less than a month ago, has already reached £6,303, surpassing its £6,000 target. Want a quick and special update on the biggest news? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out what you need to know…
