Perth journalist taken ill on cruise liner grateful for support

A Perth journalist who took ill while on holiday has thanked people back home for their support.

Les Stewart has been released from an intensive care unit at the Tianjin TEDA Puhua International Hospital in Beijing after suffering a heart attacklast week and is now recovering in a general ward.

The move meant his wife Nancy was able to talk to the 66-year-old face-to-face for the first time since he fell ill. Previously she was only able to talk to him via a phone with a TV monitor.

His son Steven Stewart said the couple were touched by the messages they had received.

He said: “My mum and dad wanted to thank everyone for the messages of support they have received from friends, former work colleagues and family all over the world.

“My dad has told me the care he has received from the medical staff at the hospital has been excellent and the cruise company, Royal Caribbean International, have also been very helpful.”

Mr Stewart was on a cruise on the liner, Voyager of the Seas, when he had his heart attack. The ship returned to port for him to receive urgent medical attention. He is expected to remain in hospital for another week.