Family pays tribute after Stranraer man, who documented his struggle with covid-19, dies
68 year-old James MacDonald wanted to warn people of the dangers of the virus.
Last updated 26th Jan 2021
A Stranraer man, documenting his battle with COVID-19 in a series of video diaries online, has died.
Two weeks ago we heard a warning from 68 year-old James MacDonald to take coronavirus seriously as he struggled to breathe in Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.
Less than a week later James would succumb to the illness.
In some of his last video blogs he said: "Unless you want to end up like this start believing, get yourself together on this.
"I've had five attempts today at an arterial line, everyone has been a failure, so keep that in mind folks.
"I'm going to go and relax again and get ready for my big mask and my all nighter again.
"Have fun you all, enjoy, and for gods sake stay in the house and stay safe, this is no joke.
"Right, see you all, bye."
In a statement released by his family they describe James as a massive country music fan, devoted father of four and grandfather.
He was known to his friends as the Rocking Reverend, Blue Beard and Cherokee Jim and would never be found far away from his pet dog Rihanna.
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