Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
‘Very ignorant’ rulebreakers are slammed by survivor
A COVID-19 survivor has expressed his frustration at seeing crowds out and about despite tough new rules aimed at stemming the spread of the virus.
Geoffrey Mckillop still requires oxygen almost five months after being released from hospital.
The 56-year-old from Bushmills, Co Antrim, spent two weeks on a ventilator in April and missed the birth of his first grandson as he fought for his life.
He said: “People are very ignorant,
they think they can’t get it. I came around Portballintrae on Sunday and I just shook my head.
“I came into Bushmills and actually sat in the car outside my coffee shop, could not believe what I saw.
“Portballintrae harbour car park was absolutely full. I’m not trying to be a party pooper, but all the canoes and paddles boards and they were all standing together having a cup of tea and a chat.
“I was thinking, ‘You guys aren’t from here, what are you doing here?’ Totally unnecessary journey. Any other
time of the year we would welcome you here with open arms but these are extraordinary circumstances. It doesn’t seem to register with people.”
Mr Mckillop first experienced symptoms at the end of March and was admitted to hospital on April 5.
He was quickly put on a ventilator, which he remained on until April 25.
Since then, he has had to move to a bungalow while he slowly recovers his strength.
Mr Mckillop told of the warm reaction he received when he left the Causeway Hospital. Bushmills
residents lined the streets as he was driven through the town, where he owns the Hip Chip and the Codsway restaurants.
He added: “I was totally overwhelmed, it was a lovely gesture, something I will never forget.”
The businessman remains on the journey to recovery and doctors believe there is permanent damage to his lungs. He said: “I’m just happy to be alive. A lot of really good people didn’t get the luck that I got.
“It gives you a different outlook on life, that’s for sure.”