Matthew Allick, aged 42, fell ill in late August 2023, experiencing breathing difficulties and swollen feet. He recently reunited with the medical team who revived him after he suffered a severe heart attack, being clinically dead for ten minutes.
The Romford resident, a father of two, was quickly taken to the hospital in an ambulance after collapsing due to a cardiac arrest caused by a pulmonary embolism. He remained in a coma for three days, likening the experience to a peaceful slumber.
Over two years later, Matthew visited Hammersmith Hospital to express his gratitude to the healthcare professionals who saved his life. Learning that 85% of his body was affected by blood clots came as a shock to him.
Describing the emotional day, Matthew acknowledged the significant role the medical staff played in his recovery. He met with various team members, including consultants, nurses, and the surgeon who removed the clots, expressing overwhelming appreciation for their efforts.
Following the harrowing incident in 2023, where he was revived with a defibrillator and CPR, tests revealed cricket ball-sized blood clots in his heart and lungs. Multiple surgeries were performed to clear them, as Matthew vividly recalled the events during a hospital tour.
Since the incident, Matthew has embarked on acting opportunities, including roles in a popular TV show and a lottery advertisement. He also engages in motivational speaking and works with the Blood Foundation to encourage blood donations, crediting his survival to seven crucial blood transfusions.
Reflecting on his ordeal, Matthew shared how the experience motivated him to remain positive despite facing challenges, leading to significant personal and professional growth. He emphasized the importance of making the most of life and honoring the healthcare professionals who gave him a second chance.
Dr. Behrad Baharlo, a consultant at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, praised Matthew’s progress and highlighted the collaborative effort of healthcare professionals in his recovery. He stressed the importance of blood donations in saving lives, commending Matthew’s advocacy efforts.
Dee Thiruchelvam, Chief Nursing Officer at NHS Blood and Transplant, underscored the impact of blood donation in saving lives, citing Matthew’s story as a testament to its significance in providing patients like him with a new lease on life.