MCALESTER, Okla. — A McAlester police officer has passed away after fighting for his life in the hospital following a 2 week battle with COVID-19.
"At this point, it's a matter of life and death," said Shelley Kelley, Officer Danny Kelley's wife.
Danny Kelley, a 13-year veteran of the McAlester Police Department was diagnosed with COVID-19 on January 14th.
His wife, Shelley, says he had mild symptoms the first 5 days, then on the 6th day, his condition got worse.
He was unconscious on a vent in the ICU at a hospital in McAlester.
"He's sick. He's sick. At this point, the ECMO is going to be our only hope," said Shelley.
Shelley said, at the time, they were still waiting for Danny to be transferred to a Tulsa hospital to get treatment from an ECMO machine, but staffing challenges are making it difficult.
"I'm heartbroken. I'm at my wit's end. I'm tired. I'm angry," said Shelley.
Shelley says the McAlester police family has supported her family through this difficult time, hosting a prayer vigil outside the hospital checking on her and bringing her food.
"Any need that we have had they have met above and beyond," said Shelley.
Shelley says more than anything she wants her husband to get the treatment he needs so he can come back home.
"He is a big man with an even bigger heart. He would give the shirt off of his back for anybody. He is a well-loved man," said Shelley.
McAlester Police Department later confirmed that Officer Kelley passed away over the weekend.
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