The widow of a 72-year-old Suffolk man who fostered more than 20 children has paid tribute to him after he saved lives after his death. 

Alan Skippen died at Ipswich Hospital in January 2022 following a bleed on the brain.

Foster parent Mr Skippen, who lived near Hadleigh, passed away just four months after telling wife Jenny that he wanted to donate his organs – which she said helped her family at a difficult time as they knew they were honouring his wishes.

The couple had been married for 50 years.

Ipswich Star: Jenny and Alan Skippen Jenny and Alan Skippen (Image: ESNEFT)

His kidneys were used to help two men in their 70s, while his liver saved the life of a 50-year-old who had been given one month to live.

His corneas were also harvested to help people with sight problems.

Mrs Skippen said: “Alan was a keen blood donor and was quietly proud of donating 89 units during his lifetime, so it was unsurprising when he agreed to have his organs harvested.

“That made it was easy for us as a family when we were approached about donation as we knew it was what he wanted.

“I have since received cards from two of the recipients, which was wonderful. It somehow made it more personal to know that part of Alan had given people and their families their lives back.

“We are so proud of Alan. We have lost him and still grieve for him, but what a legacy to leave. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.”

Mrs Skippen and sons Mark, Simon and Paul, together with their wives and Mr Skippen's grandchildren, now wear the golden heart pin – which is given to donor families by NHS Blood and Transplant – to help start conversations around the importance of organ donation.

She added: “We wear our golden heart badges with pride. If we are asked what it symbolises, we explain how selfless our husband, brother, dad and grandad was.

“This is particularly true of Simon and his wife Vicki, who work on the frontline of the NHS.

"When they talk to the families of patients who are unfortunately not going to survive, they wear the golden heart and explain how organ donation can turn something utterly terrible into something where some good can be salvaged.

“I would actively encourage everybody to talk to their nearest and dearest while they are fit and well. Have that conversation now so if the unthinkable does happen, everyone is clear about what their loved one wanted.”