A Scottish father has tragically died after falling seriously ill at an airport in Turkey just before his flight home. David Kelly, a joiner from Barrhead in Renfrewshire, was on holiday with his wife Dawn when his health suddenly deteriorated.
Emergency at the Airport
David was due to fly home with his wife when he became unwell at the airport. He was rushed to a Turkish hospital and placed in an induced coma in the intensive care unit. Dawn stayed by his side for four weeks as he fought for his life.
Repatriation to Scotland
On June 8, David was repatriated to Scotland aboard a specialist flying intensive care unit. He was taken to the Intensive Care Unit at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley, where he received what his family described as 'outstanding' care. Despite the efforts of medical staff, David passed away on June 18, surrounded by his loved ones.
Fundraiser Launched
A GoFundMe page was set up with the family's permission to cover the costs of emergency medical care in Turkey and funeral expenses. Christine Adams, who organized the fundraiser, 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. Within a matter of hours, his condition deteriorated rapidly, and he was rushed to intensive care.'
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
David's family shared the news on his business's Facebook page, Barrhead Joinery. They said: '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, as a family we'd like to thank you all for the work you all have given David over the years. Lots of love from his wife Dawn, and daughters Gemma & Sophie.'
David was described as a 'much-loved husband, father, brother, uncle and friend.' Christine Adams said: 'He was someone who was always there to lend a hand, offer support, and put others before himself. Now it is our turn to be there for those he loved most.'
Tributes from the Community
Tributes poured in from the local community. Noreen McHugh wrote: 'I am devastated to hear this sad news about Davie. He was an excellent professional who I counted on over the years. But utmost a wonderful human being who was always friendly and honest. My sincerest condolences to you and your daughters. A huge loss for you all. RIP Davie, you will be sorely missed.'
Another person added: 'So sorry to hear this very sad news. David did some work for me when I moved into my home in Newton Mearns some years ago. Such a lovely, lovely man. Sending you all my heartfelt condolences.'
The fundraiser also aims to make a donation to Kidney Research UK in David's memory and to the ICU at the Royal Alexandra Hospital for their care in his final days.
