Gordon Kell, 75, becomes Newcastle University postgraduate

Jul 7 2009 by Katy Simpson, The Journal

Following his retirement, Mr Kell maintained his international links continued with a programme he set up to supply kidney dialysis machines to hospitals in Kazakhstan.

But his busy life came to an abrupt standstill three years ago when he suffered internal bleeding and fell into a coma. Doctors warned his wife Kath, 74, and children Ian, 49, Annette, 47, and Catherine, 45, that he was unlikely to ever wake up, but against all odds Mr Kell battled through.

Son Ian said: “He was in a coma for about three weeks and we were told he was going to die.

“He was left with his mobility curtailed, and he gets very breathless quickly, so he decided to go back to studying.

“We’re all very proud of him, and are looking forward to the graduation ceremony later this week.

“It is a commendable achievement for anyone, but it was the first time he had engaged in formal academic studies since leaving Corpus Christie school in Gateshead at the age of 14.”

Mr Kell passed on his love of travel to Ian’s children, Marianne, 23, who is working as a translator in Helsinki, and Matthew, 21, who is currently living in Beijing as part his degree in Mandarin.

“He is an inspiration to us all,” said Ian. “He always had an interest in everything. He has done a lot of artwork as well.”

Dr Martin Farr, of the School of Historical Studies at Newcastle University, praised Mr Kell as a role model for every mature student.

Dr Farr, who was Mr Kell’s tutor, said: “Newcastle University always encourages mature students to continue their education, but Gordon has made an extraordinary effort at this stage in his life, overcoming severe health issues too. Having been a scientist all his life, Gordon completely changed direction taking on a challenge in a new discipline. He came through and produced a most interesting dissertation on the use of Chinese migrant labour on the Western front in the First World War.

“He has earned his degree and our congratulations. We wish him well for the future.”