Swine flu crisis: Christmas Day tragedy
A SWINE flu victim who was admitted to hospital on Christmas Day has lost his fight for life.
Barman John Walsh, 21 – described as “happy and bubbly” – was transferred from North Tees Hospital in Stockton-on-Tees to the University Hospital of Hartlepool where he died on Sunday.
He had been ill for some days before seeking treatment. His heartbroken sister Becky, 27, said: “John was a big lad but he had no underlying health issues at all. He was reluctant to go to the doctor’s.”
John worked at the Garrick pub in Stockton. Becky added: “It was his life. He was so happy and bubbly.”
Workmate Katy Hutchcraft, 24, said: “He was crying with pains in his stomach, but said he would be fine. He didn’t like to make a fuss.”