David Kelly tragically passed away when a ‘relaxing holiday turned into a nightmare’ and he fell unwell at the airport.
A Scottish dad has died after suddenly taking seriously ill shortly before flying home from a holiday in Turkey. David Kelly, from Barrhead in Renfrewshire, was due to fly home with his wife, Dawn, when his health rapidly deteriorated.
The joiner was rushed from the airport to hospital where he was placed in an induced coma in the intensive care unit. As reported by Need To Know, devoted Dawn stayed at his bedside in the Turkish hospital while David, 59, fought for his life.
After four weeks, on June 8, dad-of-two 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.
He received “outstanding” care fron hospital staff but, tragically, he passed away on June 18, surrounded by his loved ones.
A fundraiser has been set up with the permission of David’s family, who are having to deal with the costs of his emergency medical care in Turkey as well as his funeral costs.
Posting on the GoFundMe page, Christine Adams said: “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.
“Placed into an induced coma and kept alive by life support, David was fighting for his life thousands of miles from home.
“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.”
Speaking about his return home, Chrstine added: “On June 8, David was finally repatriated to Scotland aboard a specialist flying intensive care unit.
“He continued his fight while receiving outstanding care from the dedicated staff in the Intensive Care Unit at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley. Despite everyone’s best efforts, our warrior David passed away peacefully on 18 June, surrounded by his loving family.”
His family later announced the devastating news through his business’ 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 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 have also poured in from members of 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 upmost 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. x”
As well as supporting David’s family through this difficuly time, the fundraiser aims to make a donation to both Kidney Research UK in his memory and to the ICU at the Roayl Alexandra Hospital, after the care they showed the dad in his final days.
To donate, click HERE.


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