A father, who experienced a ten-minute “death” episode after suffering a heart attack, compared the incident to a serene sleep. Matthew Allick, aged 42, started feeling unwell in late August 2023, facing issues like shortness of breath and swollen feet.
Despite being typically healthy, the Romford father-of-two attributed his symptoms to adapting to a new night shift routine. However, when he struggled to climb just one step at work, prompting a colleague to call for an ambulance.
Shortly after reaching the hospital, the 40-year-old collapsed due to a cardiac arrest triggered by a pulmonary embolism, leading to a few minutes of clinical death.
Upon awakening from a coma that lasted three days, Matthew couldn’t recall anything but described the experience as akin to waking up from a peaceful slumber. He now shares his story to emphasize the significance of blood donations, acknowledging them for saving his life.
Reflecting on the events, Matthew recounted feeling unwell in August 2023, noticing his feet swelling. Initially attributing it to his night shifts, he brushed it off. However, as his breathlessness worsened during mundane tasks, he realized something was amiss.
During a work shift, he struggled to ascend stairs and asked for an ambulance, despite not experiencing pain at the time. Responders arrived promptly, identified an irregular heartbeat, and transported him to Hammersmith Hospital as a precaution.
At the hospital, Matthew’s discomfort escalated rapidly, leading to his collapse. Medical staff resuscitated him after several minutes of clinical death, discovering blood clots the size of a cricket ball in his heart and lungs. Multiple surgeries and blood transfusions were required to remove the clots, ultimately saving his life.
Despite doctors warning of potential brain damage due to oxygen deprivation, Matthew fully regained consciousness upon awakening, with only his memory affected.
Matthew’s recovery journey included regaining physical movement and memory skills. He expressed gratitude for the support received during his hospital stay, emphasizing the importance of blood donations in his survival.
Matthew, now 75% recovered, experiences occasional chest pains and fears a recurrence. He remains thankful for the care received and encourages blood donation awareness, especially within the Black community.
He acknowledges the ongoing need for blood donations and advocates for individuals to consider donating to save lives. If interested in becoming a blood donor, individuals can do so through various platforms such as the NHSBT app, Blood.co.uk, or by calling 0300 123 23 23.