Matthew Allick, a 42-year-old man, started feeling unwell in late August 2023, experiencing breathing difficulties and swollen feet. After enduring a significant heart attack that caused him to be “dead for 10 minutes,” Matthew recently reunited with the medical team that revived him.
Rushed to the hospital in Romford via ambulance, Matthew suffered a cardiac arrest due to a pulmonary embolism. He was declared clinically deceased for a brief period and remained in a coma for three days, likening it to a serene slumber.
More than two years later, Matthew revisited Hammersmith Hospital to convey his appreciation to the staff who saved his life. Recalling the emotional day, he was shocked to learn the extent of his condition, with doctors revealing that 85% of his body was affected by blood clots.
Expressing his gratitude, Matthew recounted the moment he met the consultant who played a pivotal role in his recovery, emphasizing the emotional significance of the encounter. He was overwhelmed by the number of healthcare professionals involved in his care, feeling a sense of celebrity status.
Medical intervention involved using a defibrillator and administering CPR vigorously, causing internal bleeding. Tests revealed cricket ball-sized blood clots lodged in his heart and lungs, leading to multiple surgeries to remove them.
During his visit to the hospital, Matthew met approximately 20 healthcare workers, including consultants, nurses, and the surgeon who performed the clot extraction. Witnessing the dedication of the medical staff, he highlighted the importance of recognizing their life-saving efforts.
Following his cardiac arrest, Matthew faced a challenging year marked by personal struggles. However, his near-death experience inspired him to remain optimistic, leading to significant improvements in his life. He has since pursued acting opportunities, delivered motivational speeches, and collaborated with the Blood Foundation to promote blood donation.
Reflecting on his journey, Matthew emphasized the impact of the medical team on his second chance at life. Dr. Behrad Baharlo, a consultant involved in his care, praised Matthew’s recovery and highlighted the collaborative effort of healthcare professionals in saving lives.
NHS Blood and Transplant’s Chief Nursing Officer, Dee Thiruchelvam, emphasized the importance of blood donation in saving lives, citing Matthew’s story as a testament to the life-saving potential of blood transfusions.