Former Hornet has heart attack driving home from match
FORMER Rochdale Hornets ‘fan favourite’ John Cookson suffered a heart attack while driving home after a game.
The 32-year-old forward thought he was ‘just sore’ after playing for North Wales Crusaders against Toronto Wolfpack in Wrexham on Friday night.
He called an ambulance when he got home to Blackburn complaining of pains in his chest and arms.
He was taken by ambulance to a cardiac department in Blackpool where he is still recovering.
Speaking from hospital to the Observer’s sister paper the Daily Post he said: “I drove back to Blackburn whilst having a heart attack and then got taken to ambulance.
“Obviously I didn’t know what was wrong, I just thought I was a bit sore after the game.
“I’m still in hospital but hoping to be out in the next few days, I’m doing ok.
“The support I’ve had from my rugby family has been unbelievable.”
Scores of wellwishers have offered their support to John, who joined the Crusaders from Hornets before the start of this season.
The club said: “North Wales Crusaders would like to wish John Cookson a speedy recovery after he suffered a heart attack following Friday’s game against Toronto Wolfpack.
“He was taken to hospital where it was discovered that his main artery was blocked.
“Thankfully hospital John by is now in a stable condition but will remain in hospital for a few days.
“Everyone at North Wales Crusaders would like to wish John a speedy recovery and offer him our support.”
The Hornets wrote on their website: “Rochdale Hornets have learned the sad news that fan favourite, John Cookson, suffered a heart attack after playing for current club North Wales Crusaders.
“The thoughts of everyone at Rochdale Hornets are with John and his family at this difficult time and we wish him a full and speedy recovery.”
John played more than 100 matches for Hornets between 2011 and 2016 before his move to North Wales.
The club added: “He was also an integral member of the squad in our promotion winning 2013 campaign and also scored in the Grand Final against rivals Oldham.
Toronto Wolfpack, who won the match 80-0, tweeted: “From the players and everybody here at the Toronto Wolfpack organisation, we wish you a full and speedy recovery mate.”