Firefighter recovering from coronavirus thanks NHS staff for saving his life
A firefighter who spent three weeks in and out of intensive care with coronavirus has thanked the NHS staff who saved his life.
39-year-old Steve Landon is currently recovering at Wrexham Maelor Hospital on an isolation ward, and shared his progress in a heartwarming video from his hospital bed.
The Wrexham father-of-four paid tribute to his wife, Becky, and praised the hospital staff who have cared for him.
Speaking through sharp intakes of breath, the Deeside firefighter said: "I can't take my mask off for very long because I'm still on a lot of oxygen...but I thought now's the chance to do a quick video on my progress.
"First of all, I want to say a massive thank you to all of you who have been sending prayers and thoughts and support.
"I have been reading your messages and they have encouraged me.
"Becky has been amazing. Very supportive looking after the kids. What a wife.
"But I do have to say a massive thank you to the NHS staff who havebeen my family when I haven't been with mine."
"If it weren't for them, I can honestly say that I wouldn't be here."
Watch: Firefighter who survived intensive care thanks NHS for saving his life
Steve was admitted to hospital on March 28 after suffering cold-like symptoms before collapsing twice and struggling to breathe.He spent more than ten days in intensive care where he was put on aCPAP (pressurised oxygen) machine.
He also had to have a chest drain when one of his lungs collapsed.
But he is now on the mend, and hopes to be able to trial a new drugthat could help other Covid-19 patients in future when he is wellenough.
Sharing the video on her Facebook page, Steve's wife Becky said: "It was three weeks today that Steve got taken into hospital via ambulance.
"I can only describe it as a rollercoaster.
"Today he has recorded a video message which shows you the impact thisvirus can have even on the healthiest of people."