A Scots family have been left devastated after their beloved dad went to bed and never woke up, just weeks after being diagnosed with sleep apnoea.
Dad-of-four Lee Jamieson, known as Biggie, tragically passed away on Sunday, January 29, at his home in Haddington, East Lothian, after putting off a doctors visit to deal with the condition.
Lee's partner Yvonne McIntyre said the 35-year-old's sudden death had turned her family's life upside down and is now warning others with the sleep disorder to take it seriously.
A post-mortem has yet to be carried out to determine the exact cause of Lee's death, however, his family believe that he died with the sleep disorder, which he was only diagnosed with on January 9.
Sleep apnoea occurs when you stop breathing in your sleep, with the most common known as obstructive sleep apnoea. It is treated by wearing a mask which pumps air into your lungs while you sleep.
Speaking to the Daily Record, Yvonne, who was in a relationship with Lee for 15 years, said: "He went to sleep and never woke up.
"It was such a shock to all of us. We're heartbroken.
"He had just been diagnosed with sleep apnoea earlier in the month and was due to go back to the doctors to get a machine to use to help him sleep at night but he hadn't been yet. He was really stubborn and was putting it off.
"I just wish he had gone and could maybe still be here with us. This is a serious disorder and I hope other sufferers read this and take it seriously. Wearing the machine is so important."
Lee, who was dad to Nadia, 19, twins Eve and Lea, 13 and Aly, 12, was popular in his hometown, with Yvonne describing him as the 'life and soul of the party'.
She added: "He was honestly just the best person. He was a great dad, an amazing partner and just loved by so many people. He's been my best friend for 18 years and I don't know how me and the girls will love without him."
Posting a tribute to her dad on social media, Eve said: "Dad I love you so much. I can’t believe you're gone. I miss you so much. If someone told me the last time you hugged me would be the last I would’ve hugged you longer.
"I love you so much and thank you for everything you ever did for me. I’ll forever love you with everything in me."
A fundraiser page has been set-up to help cover Lee's funeral costs. Almost £2000 has been raised in less than 48 hours. To donate click here.
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