A care worker and mum-of-three has died just a few weeks after catching coronavirus.
Lee Ashton, 42, described partner Laura Tamne, 37, as his "absolute soulmate" and said he is devastated by her death.
She tragically leaves behind three children: Lewis, 12, Dylan, eight, and Emelia, three.
Ms Tamne worked as an NHS support worker for 15 years before recently joining a home care company in Hinckley, Leicestershire.
Mr Ashton said both he and his partner of 15 years developed symptoms of coronavirus initially.
But as his condition improved hers began to worsen, eventually forcing him to dial 999 as she could not breathe.
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The couple had already had to deal with the trauma of losing their baby Jacob in December 2019 after he contracted pneumonia.
A fundraising page has now been launched by a close friend of the pair after Ms Tamne's death to help with funeral costs.
Mr Ashton said: "After about eight or nine days, I had to ring an ambulance, because she couldn't breathe.
"They took her to hospital and she was on a (continuous positive airway pressure) machine at University Hospital Coventry for seven days.
"Then they had to put her on a ventilator, and she was on that for two weeks."
Ms Tamne died on Thursday after going into organ failure, Mr Ashton added.
He was able to go to her bedside and see his partner in her final hours.
Mr Ashton, from Coventry, West Midlands, said: "To be honest, I am still in shock.
"She was my absolute soulmate. I thought she'd just go in and come out - that didn't happen.
"I am just sitting here, thinking 'what am I going to do? I loved her.
"I'm left here to pick up everything, and do what's best for the kids."
Anyone who wishes to make a donation can visit the GoFundMe here.
More than £3,000 has been raised so far.
A post on the page by the organiser reads: "Today my bestfriend Lee had to say goodbye to his beautiful girlfriend Laura.
"She lost her battle with covid this morning leaving him and their three young children.
"She worked for the NHS helping loved ones be returned to their family’s and friends.
"Unfortunately nothing further could be done to return her.
"I would like to ask you to help me give back to the family.
"This will help Lee give Laura the send off she deserves and allow the children to say a proper goodbye to their amazing mum.
"Please share and tell people about Laura's story. Any donations will be greatly appreciated."
