A BASINGSTOKE DJ who is recovering from Covid-19 after being seriously ill has asked people to spend “one hour with his lungs” when considering whether to get vaccinated.

Leroy Wilson, who has been a DJ in Basingstoke since the 1970s, caught Covid in June, having been double vaccinated. Since then, his lungs have been weak and he has had to learn how to walk again.

The 55-year-old from Hatch Warren went to A&E with a severe headache and was diagnosed with Covid. Leroy has a blood disorder and medication he takes means his vaccinations are less effective.

Leroy spent almost three months in and out of hospital including spending time in a rehabilitation centre in Andover.

Leroy said getting the Covid-19 vaccination or booster is peoples own decision but asked them to think about what he has been through.

He added: “What I would say now is the vaccine is your choice and I am not going to change it unfortunately but all I would like you to do is have my lungs for one hour, not even a day of my life, just one hour where you have got no strength.”

The Gazette previously reported that the community has rallied to support Leroy, raising funds to help him out as he has been unable to work throughout much of his Covid journey.

The page, which was set up by Sylvia Roshier, who has known Leroy since he was 12 has generated more than £4,000.

The 55-year-old is still on the road to recovery and finds day to day activities difficult and still must do breathing exercises.

He added: “The rehab is going well but its slow, but we are making progress and I don’t have to use my crutches anymore, my voice is coming back, and my lungs are getting stronger.

“I will be walking somewhere, and I will have to stop randomly and just go through the breathing exercises.

“I had to learn to walk again and I was just stuck in bed all of the time.”

Leroy, who is a massive Chelsea fan was thrilled to receive a video message from manager Thomas Tuchel.

Thomas said: “I heard about your situation, and I hope you are doing better be sure that you have full support mentally and stay tough.

“Things will get better I am pretty sure and meanwhile support is here, keep on winning.”

The much-loved DJ hopes to get back to his love of DJing soon.