(Reuters) – Luton Town captain Tom Lockyer has provided an update on his health following the cardiac arrest he suffered during a Premier League match at Bournemouth. Lockyer, a Wales international, collapsed on the field during the 65th minute of the match on Dec. 16. He was discharged from the hospital on Dec. 21 after an ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator) device was fitted to prevent another cardiac arrest.
In an Instagram post, Lockyer expressed his gratitude to the players, staff, doctors, and paramedics who saved his life. He also emphasized the importance of CPR, stating that it literally saves lives. Luton Town returned to action on Dec. 23 with a 1-0 home win over Newcastle United, and fans paid tribute to Lockyer in the stadium.
Lockyer expressed his appreciation for the support he received from fans and the fighting spirit of his teammates. The 29-year-old will continue his rehabilitation at home, and Luton Town stated that his leadership will continue to inspire his teammates, colleagues, and supporters.
“I would just like to say that I am doing very well and feeling very much myself,” Lockyer wrote. “The reason I’m doing so well is all down to the heroic actions of the players, staff, doctors and paramedics. I feel thankful that this happened to me surrounded by these heroes. They saved my life. I will never forget what you did for me.”
He also posted a picture with the names of the doctors and officials who helped treat him. “Seeing the banners at the ground and hearing my name being sung really did mean a lot to me and my family,” Lockyer said. “While I’m sad not to be involved, I feel full of pride watching the boys carry on the battle without me. The fighting spirit I’ve seen in the last three games has given me a much needed lift.”
“We’re so proud to have Locks as our captain and his leadership will continue from the sidelines where his courage will inspire his team mates, colleagues, and supporters,” Luton Town said in a statement on Dec. 21.
The club also emphasized the importance of CPR and expressed gratitude for the support and well-wishes received by Lockyer and the team. (Reporting by Chiranjit Ojha in Bengaluru, editing by Pritha Sarkar)
