Morgan MacRae, a 22-year-old rugby player for the Henley Hawks, has made a remarkable comeback to the sport following a life-threatening cardiac arrest. On Saturday, March 9, MacRae played the final 20 minutes of the game against Worthing at Dry Leas, receiving a warm welcome from the home crowd as he took to the field, contributing to his team’s 29-19 victory.
Expressing his gratitude for the overwhelming support, MacRae stated, “It was an incredible moment. With my family and friends cheering me on, and the boys congratulating me as I entered the field, it was a truly amazing occasion for me and for the sport of rugby. It feels surreal to be back playing again.”
In a separate match on the same day, MacRae scored two tries for Henley’s 2nd XV as they triumphed over Tadley with a score of 50-7, showcasing his outstanding recovery and determination to continue his passion for the sport.
His life was saved by his girlfriend Kitty Williams, who performed CPR after discovering him in cardiac arrest last August. Following a hospital stay and surgical intervention to implant a special device, MacRae has made an impressive return to the sport. The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD) fitted in his chest enabled him to resume training just three weeks after completing his recovery in September.
To protect the S-ICD during play, MacRae collaborated with the club’s medical team to devise a protective garment for the device, enabling him to train and play without hindrance. He has also been actively involved in promoting awareness about CPR training and the importance of access to life-saving devices. Together with his girlfriend, MacRae has established an Instagram page called @mysicdandme to share their journey and raise awareness on the matter.
The couple has also visited various schools and a university to deliver speeches about their experience and advocate for mandatory CPR training. MacRae believes that their efforts are making a small yet meaningful impact, stating, “It’s a very small dent in a pretty massive task we’re taking on but it’s heading in the right direction.”
MacRae’s story not only demonstrates his resilience and determination but also serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. His remarkable return to the sport he loves after such a perilous experience underscores the importance of access to life-saving equipment and the necessity for greater awareness of CPR training.
As MacRae continues on his path to full recovery, his story is sure to inspire many others and draw attention to the significance of CPR and access to life-saving devices in both sports and daily life.