Ian Bailey fights for life after second heart attack in a week
Ian The Dan Cork On Bailey Linehan Picture: In Pier West Schull,
Ian Bailey is fighting for his life after suffering two heart attacks in a week.
In 2019, Mr Bailey was convicted in absentia by a court in Paris of the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier in 1996. He has always denied having anything to do with her death.
Mr Bailey is being treated at Cork University Hospital.
Speaking from his hospital bed, he said: "I am very ill and fear I am running out of time.
“The doctors have not been able to operate because of existing health issues I have.
“I have some kind of heart issue but at the moment they can’t put stents in.
“I just want people to know that if I don’t pull through, I am an innocent man and did not kill Sophie.”
The 64-year-old Englishman said he had not been feeling well for the last several weeks and went downhill last weekend.
He stated: "I had a heart attack on Sunday and then Monday and was initially treated in Bantry Hospital.
“The care I have received in both hospitals has been outstanding.
“I feel really weak at the moment and do not know what the future holds.
“The medical team are doing their best for me and I really appreciate it. Each and everyone of them are stars.
“I had been suffering from extreme stress and anxiety for weeks now caused by the whole Sophie case plus the prospect of being kicked out of my home.
“The pressure of losing your home and homelessness is also very very difficult to deal with.
“I did not feel well at all and then it all came to a head.
“I felt very weak and felt like I was going to die. Thankfully I got to the hospital in time and they were able to treat me.”
Mr Bailey said he is now hoping and praying that he will recover from his heart illness and that he won’t take another turn.
He added: ”I just hope my time is now up yet and I can pull through.”