With or without flu

 

In a year that saw him win a ‘major’ international title, Dean Hardy could never have predicted that 2010 would end with a serious health scare.

 

The 38 year-old beat dozens of opponents from across the world to win the International Shouting Championship at the Paddy Games held in Ireland in August (below), and has since rubbed shoulders with the likes of U2 singer Bono in New York (right).

 

But his year has ended on a worrying note after he was struck down with Swine Flu during a weekend visit to London, resulting in the Welshpool man requiring emergency treatment.

 

“It has been some six months!” said Dean. “I guess you could say I have had my fair share of highs and lows!

 

“I was in London for the weekend and started to feel a little ill on my way down. Three days later and my temperature was racing and I became really concerned so I contacted the hotel doctor who immediately treated me for swine flu. It was a good job I saw him there and then and didn’t wait a day or two longer until I got back to Welshpool. I was seriously ill.”

 

Following a week of medication in isolation, Dean has resurfaced to advise residents to seek immediate help if they suspect swine flu as the Government warns of an increase in the virus over recent weeks.

 

Dean became a local celebrity after winning the Championship, but his fame has not quite reached the A-listers yet. During a visit to New York, he came face-to-face with Bono in a chance meeting but admits he had to make the first move.

 

“I don’t think Bono recognised me to be honest!” he joked. “So I just asked him if I could shake his hand and he agreed. He was a really nice bloke and we chatted for a while before he got mobbed on the street and had to move on.”

 

It was ironic as Dean had tickets to watch U2 at Glastonbury back in June but the Irish rockers cancelled due to an injury sustained by the singer.

 

“I must admit, the thought did cross my mind to ask him for my money back when I was chatting to him!”

 

For more information on Swine Flu, visit: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Swineflu/DG_177831