Heartache for parents after paramedic, 23, dies ‘with the weight of the world on her shoulders’

The parents of a ‘precious’ young paramedic found dead after a shift working on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic have paid tribute to her.

Charlotte Cope, 23, treated patients in ambulances on the way to hospital after qualifying for the job two years ago.

She died on Monday at her home in Gelli, Rhondda, South Wales after emergency services rushed to her address following a 999 call.

Just days before she posted on social media, saying: ‘Life sucks right now ey. I miss my family. I miss weightlifting/training, I miss the freedom. But have to stay positive, dedicating all my time on the ambulance to help others in need at this time with my amazing colleagues. Stay safe everyone, please stay at home.’

Her parents Roger and mental health worker Heidi said: ‘As parents we are very, very heartbroken and devastated and will never get over the sudden death of our precious special daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and cousin.

‘Our hearts are truly broken, fly high our hero, spread your special wings and continue to look after the ones in heaven like you did on earth, until we meet again.’

They told The Sun: ‘Charlotte struggled sometimes at university but was strong and determined to achieve her goals and also came out on top.

‘(We) couldn’t have been any prouder of our daughter.’

Charlotte had a close bond with sister Rebecca, 20, they added, saying it was ‘truly something special and they were each other’s rocks, they were best friends’.

Friend and co-worker Connor Quinn said: ‘A very promising and proud South Wales paramedic adored by all who knew her, she had carried the weight of the world on her small shoulders in silence for far too long.’

He has raised more than £10,000 in a fundraising page to help with funeral costs and support Charlotte’s family, ‘especially as we will be unable to attend due to the current pandemic’.

He added: ‘I understand these are financially hard times and there are lots of other fundraisers currently running, but even the smallest of donation will be appreciated.’

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