British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has posted a video on Twitter, discussing his fight to survive Covid-19 and thanking the National Health Service (NHS) for saving his life.
It was released after his discharge from St Thomas' hospital in London earlier today following a seven night stay, including three nights in intensive care.
"It is hard to find the words to express my debt to the NHS for saving my life," Mr Johnson said.
"I want to pay my own thanks to the utterly brilliant doctors, leaders in their fields, men and women but several of them for some reason called Nick, who took some crucial decisions a few days ago for which I will be grateful for the rest of my life," he added.
"And the reason in the end my body did start to get enough oxygen was because for every second of the night they were watching and they were thinking and they were caring and making the interventions I needed."
Mr Johnson admitted there was a 48-hour period when things "could have gone either way" adding "the NHS has saved my life, no question."
A Downing Street statement said the Conservative leader would continue his recovery at his country retreat in Chequers and he would not be "immediately returning to work".
It is hard to find the words to express my debt to the NHS for saving my life.
— Boris Johnson #StayHomeSaveLives (@BorisJohnson) April 12, 2020
The efforts of millions of people across this country to stay home are worth it. Together we will overcome this challenge, as we have overcome so many challenges in the past. #StayHomeSaveLives pic.twitter.com/HK7Ch8BMB5
Mr Johnson's pregnant partner, Carrie Symonds also released a statement on Twitter.
"I cannot thank our magnificent NHS enough. The staff at St Thomas' Hospital have been incredible. I will never, ever be able to repay you and I will never stop thanking you.
"There were times last week that were very dark indeed. My heart goes out to all those in similar situations, worried sick about their loved ones.
"Thank you also to everyone who sent such kind messages of support. Today I'm feeling incredibly lucky."
Dr Ian Abbs, chief executive at St Thomas', said: "I am incredibly proud of the staff who have cared for the Prime Minister and pleased that he is now able to continue his recovery at home.
"I want to pay tribute to the teams whose dedication, skill and compassion made this possible."
British Health Minister Matt Hancock said there was no advice on how long Mr Johnson should rest before returning to work.
He added: "That will be a clinical decision for his doctors to take with him."
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