ANDY FORDHAM says he is on the mend after catching Covid-19 – and thanked the darts community for their continued support. The popular 2004 BDO World Champion says he is ‘terrified of dying’ after catching the killer virus. The 58-year-old ex-pub landlord, who once weighed 31 stone, has had his share of medical and health […]
ANDY FORDHAM says he is on the mend after catching Covid-19 – and thanked the darts community for their continued support.
The popular 2004 BDO World Champion says he is ‘terrified of dying’ after catching the killer virus.
The 58-year-old ex-pub landlord, who once weighed 31 stone, has had his share of medical and health issues in recent years.
The Viking tweeted: “Well, had a few scares in my time but opening that email and seeing you have tested positive for Covid just cripples you.
“I’ve had a few rough days but hopefully well on the mend.
“I thank everyone who sent get well messages they mean a lot and please stay safe.”
SunSport reported last March how Fordham was told he might need a life-saving operation following a blockage in his bowels.
In an emotional interview with SunSport earlier this month, the former world champion broke down in tears as he explained how a doctor has warned him he faces a make-or-break few days.
Fordham told SunSport: “Right now I am just about coping.
“But I spoke to my doctor who warned me the virus can hit you very quickly.
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“My biggest fear is waking up one morning, not being able to breathe and being placed in the back of the ambulance – then not seeing my wife and children again.”
Andy, nicknamed the Viking during a glittering career as a pro darts player which saw him win the world title in 2004, had been doing all he could to be careful in recent months.
But he thinks he got the virus following a recent trip to a nearby chemist.
After starting to develop a cough he was diagnosed with the virus on Friday and now has to self-isolate in his room.
Andy – who once weighed 31 stone and downed 25 bottles of lager a day – has spoken openly about his health issues.
In 2009, he got his weight down to 16 stone but last year he ballooned back up to 28 stone.
In February, it led to him being rushed to hospital where an operation on his bowel led to him having 16 litres of fluid drained from his body.
Andy, who is teetotal these days, now weighs 21 stone but suffers from a serious liver condition.
Due to a groin injury, Fordham also struggles to walk without pain.
He hasn’t thrown a dart in more than a year – but right now he says his biggest concern is beating this virus.
