Deadly mushroom lunch survivor speaks out for the first time
The man who survived the deadly mushroom lunch in Victoria last year has spoken out for the first time, sharing what has kept him going through the tragedy.
Pastor Ian Wilkinson, 70, was hospitalised for ingesting the poison, which claimed the lives of his wife Heather, his brother Don and his sister-in-law Gail, after attending lunch at Erin Patterson's home on July 29th 2023.
Ms Patterson has since been charged with three counts of murder and five of attempted murder after inviting her ex-husband’s family over to her home for lunch and allegedly serving them the poisoned dish.
Six months on, Ian Wilkinson addressed his congregation as he returned to the Korumburra Baptist Church on Sunday for the first time since the alleged poisoning, saying it had been a “big week” full of milestones for him.
“At the start of the week it was six months since Heather, Gail and Don went to be with the Lord …” he told the congregation.
“Friday was my birthday and yesterday was our 45th wedding anniversary."
“So it’s been a pretty big week but I am grateful for all that God has given me, God has done through me.”
The week prior marked 25 years since he first took on the role of pastor of the Korumburra parish, with the parishioners offering him a small gift following the sermon.
Mr Wilkinson seemed overcome with emotion during parts his sermon, sharing with the congregation that he was grateful to be back after a terrifying two-month stint in the hospital while he fought for his life after the poisoning.
“The ways are sometimes hard but God is good. He’s with us,” he said.
“He promised to never leave … and I can say, that is true.”
Image credits: Supplied