PAWEL AND DAVY ‘ON TOP OF THE WORLD’ TO BEAT COVID Iain Ferguson When commercial diver Davy Duncan set off last February for a job in Mexico, he had no idea just how life changing an experience it would become, when shortly after starting work he became infected with the Coronavirus, with devastating effect. From a strong and healthy individual, he was soon admitted to hospital and put into an an induced coma by an expert team, who gave him the second-tonone treatment which undoubtedly saved his life. Before leaving, on what was to be a short term contract, Davy and his partner, Helen Smith, had bought and worked tirelessly to build up their business, ‘Not Just Desserts’, with a cafe in Fort William High Street and cafe/restaurant near Oban. They were also working on opening an Italian Restaurant ‘The Wee Olive’ next to their High Street outlet in Fort William. Helen was also a keen runner with Lochaber Athletic Club and together they set up the local ‘Park Run’ movement. When Davy took ill, all of this was put on hold and Helen
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set off for Mexico to be near him while he was hospitalised, with the intention of being with him when he woke up. Not being in a tourist spot, she found few people spoke English, even in the
hospital, but was nonetheless overwhelmed by their kindness and empathy in doing all they could to communicate and keep her up to date. Being alone and realising everyone at home was desperate for news, she posted her thoughts on
Facebook, often of amusing anecdotes of her ‘adventures’ due to not speaking Spanish, never feeling sorry for herself or for Davy. Her tenacity paid off when he did waken, very weak after multiple organ failures and even strokes induced by the bacteria reaching his brain. He was understandably confused but also determined to get well and get home. After a few setbacks he did just that, with a special medical flight across the world, to a bed in Raigmore. He was recently transferred to the Belford in Fort William where his care and physiotherapy is ongoing and he is also allowed out in his Helenpropelled wheelchair for short journeys - even to their home, a trip they both hope will soon be a permanent arrangement. Many friends have and still are fully supporting them ‘virtually’ to protect both of them from the possibility of other infections, although a few, along with members of the family have made actual contact. To further support them, their friend and runner Pawel
| DECemBER 2021
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