Local artist 'Big Jeff' Johns has said he's feeling "nervous but excited" after he was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday (November 29) morning after six months away from home. Bristol's most famous gig goer has received extensive treatment from two hospitals since June after a house fire left him with severe burns.
The fire broke out in the artist's Totterdown home on June 6 while he was cooking himself a meal when his clothes caught on fire and left him feeling "lucky to be alive". The 40-year-old was rushed to Morriston Hospital in Swansea to be treated at a specialist burns unit, where he regained consciousness and was taken off a ventilator at the end of June. He had since been transferred to Southmead to complete his recovery.
Speaking on behalf of the artist, his art manager, Lee Johns, said: "We are thrilled to be able to let you know that Jeff has been discharged from the hospital this morning and is returning home after six months! Please say hi to Jeff if you see him out and about.
Read more: Bristol's Big Jeff moved from intensive care to continue recovery after serious fire
"MASSIVE thanks to Southmead & Morriston Hospitals, Blue Watch Temple Fire Station and all the other professionals involved in Jeff's rescue and recovery. Jeff's recovery is still ongoing and has returned home with support to help with his recovery. Jeff is feeling nervous and excited!"
Jeff broke the news on Twitter to his 21,000 followers on Monday night (November 28): "Ive [sic] got [some] big news to announce, i thought what with it being the world cup i would announce it in the style of a football chant. Ahem clears voice "Im Being Discharged In The Morning, Discharged In The Morning, Im Being Discharged in The Morning" I'm [sic] nervous."
The artist added that the "world pioneering" treatment he received at Southmead Hospital was "first class". "God bless the NHS, without it I would be f****d", he added.
Jeff has also recently completed an artwork on his hospital room window in Southmead entitled 'Body of Hope' on behalf of Fresh Arts C.I.C, a producer of participatory arts projects for children, young people, and their families.
News of Jeff's discharge from hospital was warmly welcomed by many of his Twitter followers, including Bristol East MP Kerry McCarthy, Bristol Beacon, Thekla, Fleece and We The Curious.
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