Coronavirus diary, Friday 1 May

As a care home resident, it is strange and discomforting for me to hear today that the number of coronavirus deaths in nursing and residential care homes is overtaking that in hospitals. Of the 1,016 deaths recorded in Wales by 25 April, nearly 200 were in homes. In Cardiff homes it was 40%. Until now the homes toll has not been reported and it has been a shock although there have been constant complaints that homes are being ignored and left dangerously short of protective equipment equipment. 

In Sunrise, so far, we have been fortunate in seeing little difference in our comfortable life although today our carers and all the staff started wearing masks. We were told individually that there were no symptoms and it was a precautionary measure. We are monitored regularly with temperature and other checks. Residents who prefer to stay in their rooms can do so. We still enjoy our daily programme of events and can go for a supervised walk in the gardens. 

Our carers are multi-national and multi-talented. Their skills include hairdressing and nail health, making up for the absence of visiting professionals. They are also helping the events organising team taking services, organising quizzes, gardening and flower arranging. After long shifts they go home, no doubt having their own concerns for their families. It is reassuring that, whatever happens, we know we could not be having better care. 

The nation says happy birthday. Photo: Ocean Outdoors/PA

A story to cheer Britain today: the 100th birthday of Captain Tom Moore, who set out to raise £1,000 for the NHS by walking his garden and has ended up with over £32 million. Congratulations have been pouring in: 160,000 cards from all over the world, messages from the royal family and the prime minister broadcasting from 10 Downing Street. Captain Tom, made an honorary colonel by his regiment in his garden, was eloquent in his thanks. An amazing man and an amazing achievement.