Copyright news18
In a story that blurs the fragile line between life and death, a 42-year-old father from Romford, UK, became a living testament to medical brilliance and human resilience. In August 2023, Matthew Allick’s heart stopped for 10 full minutes, a span long enough for most to lose their battle with life. But thanks to the relentless efforts of doctors at Hammersmith Hospital, Allick not only returned from the brink but now lives to inspire others. It began with mild symptoms; shortness of breath and swelling in his legs. Within hours, Allick’s condition worsened dramatically. He suffered a massive heart attack caused by a pulmonary embolism, a condition in which blood clots block the arteries of the lungs. Paramedics rushed him to the hospital, but before long, his heart stopped. For nearly ten minutes, he was clinically dead. Doctors refused to give up. They administered multiple electric shocks through a defibrillator and performed prolonged, vigorous CPR, so intense that it caused internal bleeding. After a tense struggle, his heartbeat returned. He was placed in an induced coma for three days and underwent several critical surgeries. When Allick later visited Hammersmith Hospital to thank the team that saved him, he learned just how close he had come to death. Nearly 85% of his body had been filled with blood clots, some the size of cricket balls, lodged in his heart and lungs. “I didn’t know I was that bad,” Allick recalled emotionally, “Only 5% of people survive what I went through. I hugged the consultant and realised, these were the hands that saved me.” The experience left him deeply moved by the dedication of healthcare workers. “I don’t think their work is recognised enough for truly saving lives,” he said. But survival came with its share of challenges. The year after his cardiac arrest tested him in new ways – he lost his job, went through relationship struggles, and faced financial pressures, while his son battled health issues. Yet, through it all, Allick refused to surrender to despair. His near-death experience gave him a renewed sense of purpose. Today, he has turned to acting, appearing in an episode of EastEnders as a mental health expert. He also delivers motivational talks and collaborates with the Blood Foundation to promote blood donation. “I believe I came back for a reason,” he said, “It would be unfair to be sad all the time after they brought me back. I have to make the most of life because of them.” Dr Behrad Behrlo, a member of the medical team that treated Allick, described his recovery as “nothing short of remarkable,” adding that it was wonderful to see Matthew doing so well and giving back to others.
