A “REMARKABLE” academic, once known as ‘Scotland’s sickest COVID survivor’ has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow.
Grant McIntyre, a professor of orthodontics at the University of Dundee, received the honour in recognition of his dedication to excellence within his chosen field.
The Honorary Fellowship is a mark of respect amongst peers and requires six college fellows to support and sponsor an application.
McIntyre, 52, became well-known in 2020 when he spent 128 days fighting for his life in hospital – 86 of which were in intensive care – after contracting Covid-19.
Around 200 NHS workers were involved in the Perthshire professor’s care alone, where he split treatment between Aberdeen Royal Infirmary receiving ECMO – a technique that supports the heart and lungs – and Ninewells in Dundee where he undertook an extensive rehabilitation programme.
Two years on, McIntyre continues his roles as joint clinical director for the Hospital Dental Service in NHS Tayside and as a consultant and honorary professor of orthodontics.
He received the honour – which is the highest distinction the college bestows – in the first ceremony held since his application was completed.
McIntyre said: “I’ve had many career highlights being a consultant but receiving the Honorary Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow is particularly special.
“I feel very fortunate to be here continuing to do the job I love.
“Thankfully, my lungs have reached 70% of my pre-Covid level and whilst I enjoy life to the full, several compromises have had to be made as I‘ve adapted to my ‘new normal’. Things that were a priority pre-Covid remain at the top of the list; family, career, and travel.”
President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, Mike McKirdy, added: “It is with great privilege that we’re able to recognise and commend Professor McIntyre’s contribution to dentistry.
“An Honorary Fellowship is the highest distinction the College bestows, recognising outstanding achievement in the profession as well as outstanding life achievements in other areas – which Professor McIntyre has in abundance.
“Despite the unsurmountable challenges faced because of Covid-19, Professor McIntyre continues to be an active member of the College’s dental faculty and it’s nothing short of remarkable that he continues to work at the level he does.”
