The family of a 23-year-old man, Roy Butler, who tragically passed away five days after receiving the Johnson & Johnson Janssen Covid-19 vaccine, is demanding transparency and seeking answers regarding the circumstances surrounding his death. Roy’s mother, Angela, expressed her desire for the truth during the inquest into her son’s death, highlighting the sudden decline in his health following the vaccination.
Roy Butler, a talented soccer player and a fit, healthy young man who frequented the gym up to four times a week, received the Covid-19 vaccine on August 12, 2021. Just four days later, he experienced convulsions at home and was rushed to University Hospital Waterford before being transferred to Cork University Hospital, where he was placed on life support. Tragically, Roy never regained consciousness and passed away on August 17, 2021.
In the days leading up to his death, Roy communicated with family and friends via text messages, expressing discomfort and symptoms such as headaches, sweats, and joint pain. In one poignant message to his brother Aaron, he lamented feeling unwell after the vaccine, indicating that he was “f**ked after the vaccine.” Despite being a ‘mild asthmatic’ with well-controlled asthma, Roy’s health deteriorated rapidly following the vaccination.
Angela Butler shared that Roy had reservations about receiving the vaccine but ultimately decided to do so in order to travel to Dubai with friends. Prior to August 12, Roy had never been sick, leading his family to believe that his sudden decline in health was directly linked to the Covid-19 vaccine. Described as a loving and family-oriented individual with a passion for football, Roy’s untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of his loved ones.
Roy’s father, Martin, emphasized his son’s excellent health and absence of prior medical issues, underscoring the shock and devastation experienced by the family following Roy’s unexpected death. On the day of his passing, Roy exhibited symptoms of illness after returning from the gym, prompting his family to seek medical assistance when his condition continued to worsen.
Medical professionals at University Hospital Waterford and Cork University Hospital were perplexed by Roy’s case, as his age and previous good health did not align with the severity of his condition. Despite valiant efforts to save him, including a transfer to Cork University Hospital under garda escort, Roy’s chances of survival dwindled to a mere 1%, leading to the difficult decision to discontinue life support.
Roy’s brother Aaron recounted the text exchanges with his sibling, detailing Roy’s reluctance to receive the vaccine but his determination to do so for the sake of his travel plans. Despite feeling unwell post-vaccination, Roy refrained from taking time off work and dismissed suggestions of medication, showcasing his resilience and dedication to his responsibilities.
Paramedic Brian Jackman described the distressing scene upon encountering Roy, who displayed stroke-like symptoms and struggled to breathe. The subsequent convulsions and seizures necessitated urgent medical attention, culminating in Roy’s transfer to Cork University Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
Dr. Bernadette O’Leary, Roy’s GP, attested to his overall good health and athletic lifestyle, noting a background of mild asthma that was well-managed. Despite considering a change in his inhaler regimen, Dr. O’Leary expressed no concerns regarding Roy’s asthma and affirmed his status as a healthy individual prior to his vaccination.
Consultant Neuroradiologist Dr. Gerald Wyse revealed the findings of tests conducted on Roy, which indicated a large hematoma in his brain leading to a catastrophic intracranial bleed. The unexpected nature of this presentation, particularly in a young and healthy individual, underscored the rarity of such an occurrence, prompting further investigation into the underlying cause.
The inquest into Roy Butler’s death is ongoing, with representatives from Johnson & Johnson slated to provide testimony, along with Assistant State Pathologist Dr. Margot Bolster. The family’s quest for truth and transparency continues as they seek closure and understanding in the wake of this heartbreaking loss. Roy’s memory lives on through his passion for football, his unwavering love for his family, and the lasting impact he left on those who knew him.
