YOU’RE ALL LIFE-SAVERS
Stricken striker thanks medics after collapse
GRATEFUL Andre Smith has hailed the hero medics for saving his life after collapsing on the pitch while playing for Sheerwater last Saturday.
The Sheers were 3-0 down to hosts Tadley Calleva in the Combined Counties League Premier League South match when striker Smith slumped to the ground in the 62nd minute.
The game was abandoned with staff of both clubs rushing to the 24-year-old’s aid.
Tadley full-back Shemar Pettet – a senior assistant at Elysium Healthcare – and Sheerwater captain Liam Pestle got to work on the stricken Smith, alongside home physios Carolyn Tuttle and Jack Long.
Once out of immediate danger, Smith was taken to Basingstoke General Hospital where he underwent a number of tests.
He was subsequently released and is now at home recovering at home, reflecting on his ordeal
“I cannot express how grateful I am for the care I received that day. It was extraordinary and something I will never forget,” Smith told The NLP.
“There was no hint of this as I have never had heart problems. I have also been healthy and active, so it was a big shock.
“I took part in the warm up, no problem but then after about 20 minutes my heart was racing. It didn’t stop me going out after half-time but the next thing I remember is Liam tending to me.
“I am taking it easy at the moment on doctor’s orders to see what caused me to collapse. One thing I must mention is how grateful I am for all the lovely messages from other clubs, people and the league itself.”
Pestle added: “I want to say a massive thank you to all at Tadley especially the number 2 [Pettet] and the lady physio [Tuttle]. You guys were fantastic in aiding our player.”
Hours later, Tadley contacted award-winning charity The Big Match to order a portable defibrillator with one duly arriving at Barlows Park the following day.
Neil Humphries, of The Big Match, said: “Firstly we are all glad Andre has recovered. The staff did an excellent job.
“The Big Match had, up to that point, donated 49 defibrillators to schools, grassroots organisations and community hubs.
“We donate portable units to ensure they are close to hand should the need arise like that of Andre’s.”