Dad in hospital for three months after vaping put him in a coma

Blackpool: A dad named James Johnson, just 21, found himself in a coma for two weeks after vaping heavily during his shifts as a nightclub bouncer. He started feeling really sick, throwing up blood, and was rushed to intensive care. Turns out, the chemicals from his vapes caused him to develop bilateral pneumonia.

James was a regular vaper, using a £12 vape to keep himself occupied during those long 17-hour shifts. One vape would only last him a couple of days. After waking up from his coma, he learned he had spent an additional three months in the hospital due to a collapsed lung. Doctors warned him that if he kept vaping, he might not see his 40th birthday.

Now, he’s on a mission to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping, especially after hearing about Hollyoaks star Paul Danan, who passed away at 46 after struggling with respiratory issues linked to his vaping habit. James, who works as a youth support worker, is adamant that “having a vape is not worth your life.”

He encourages others to educate themselves about what they’re inhaling. At just 20, he nearly lost everything. He’s grateful it happened now rather than later when his body might not have been able to handle it. James started vaping in 2023, thinking it was just a way to pass the time during his shifts.

One night in May 2024, he suddenly started vomiting blood, and the next thing he knew, he was waking up from a coma after his heart had stopped. It was a tough time; he didn’t even recognize his partner, Charlotte, or their one-year-old daughter, Harper-Mai. Doctors found that the chemicals from the vape had filled his lungs with pus.

James recalls how stressful it was for Charlotte, who was told it was touch and go. He couldn’t walk or talk for weeks, which was incredibly frustrating. Now, he’s got one working lung and has made a remarkable recovery, thanks to his youth and determination.

He’s been advised to steer clear of smoking and vaping altogether. It took him months to get back to where he is now, and he feels lucky to be independent again. James wants to spark conversations about the real dangers of vaping, as many people are unaware of the complications it can cause.

Feeling healthier, he’s even signed up for a charity boxing match to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. He believes that if he takes care of himself, he’ll be just fine.

Check out his fundraiser here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/james-johnson?