A Scottish father of two has died after suddenly falling seriously ill at an airport in Turkey just before he was due to fly home. David Kelly, 59, a joiner from Barrhead, Renfrewshire, was on holiday with his wife Dawn when his health rapidly deteriorated.
Emergency Hospitalisation and Coma
Kelly was rushed from the airport to a Turkish hospital, where he was placed in an induced coma in the intensive care unit. His wife Dawn remained at his bedside for four weeks while he fought for his life, according to a report by Need To Know.
On June 8, Kelly was repatriated to Scotland aboard a specialist flying intensive care unit and admitted to the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley. Despite receiving what was described as "outstanding" care, he passed away on June 18 surrounded by his family.
Fundraiser Launched to Support Family
A GoFundMe page was set up with the family's permission to help cover the costs of emergency medical care in Turkey and funeral expenses. Organiser Christine Adams wrote: "What was meant to be a relaxing holiday in Turkey turned into a nightmare that none of us could have imagined. Just hours before his flight home, David suddenly became seriously unwell at the airport."
She added: "For four long weeks, his devoted wife, Dawn, remained by his side in a Turkish hospital, never leaving him as he battled with incredible strength and courage."
Family Announcement and Community Tributes
Kelly's family announced his death on the Facebook page of his business, Barrhead Joinery, stating: "We would like to share the devastating news that sadly after fighting as hard as he could that our loveable, amazing David Kelly passed away on Thursday, June 18. Barrhead Joinery will now cease trading."
Tributes from the local community highlighted his character. Noreen McHugh wrote: "I am devastated to hear this sad news about Davie. He was an excellent professional ... but utmost a wonderful human being who was always friendly and honest." Another person said: "Such a lovely, lovely man."
Fundraiser Aims to Support Kidney Research and Hospital ICU
The fundraiser also aims to make donations to Kidney Research UK and the ICU at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in recognition of the care Kelly received. As of the report, the page was accepting donations to support the family through this difficult time.
