**Sir Alex Ferguson Reflects on a Life-Saving Day in Touching NHS Tribute**
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In a deeply moving tribute to National Health Service (NHS) staff, the legendary football manager Sir Alex Ferguson shared the poignant details of how they saved his life following a brain haemorrhage in 2018. In his newly released memoir, *Games of My Life*, Sir Alex opens up about the harrowing experience and the incredible medical team that supported him during a critical time in his life.
As the celebrated former manager of Manchester United, Ferguson reminisced about the day that changed everything for him. Now 84 and celebrating 40 years since he took the reins at Old Trafford, he stated unequivocally that he owes his very existence to the dedicated NHS professionals. “Without them, I wouldn’t be writing these words,” he expressed, emphasising the value of care received during his time of need.
The memoir features a collection of 21 personally significant matches, with the first being his emotional return to Old Trafford on September 22, 2018, just four months after undergoing life-saving surgery. He attended the match against Wolverhampton with his neurosurgeon, Dr Alexandru Cotici, by his side. Ferguson noted with gratitude how Dr Cotici refrained from touching a drink throughout the game, immediately heading back to Salford Royal Hospital after the final whistle to continue his shift.
Ferguson also recounted the impact of his late wife, Cathy, who died in 2023. It was she who acted quickly when he collapsed at home, facilitating his urgent transport to Macclesfield Hospital before he was later transferred to Salford Royal. He acknowledged her pivotal role in his survival, stating, “If she hadn’t been there, the referee in the sky might have blown the final whistle for me.”
He humorously recalled waking up in hospital, facing a barrage of questions from medical staff. “I had indeed met the Queen but I didn’t remember meeting Henry VIII – or any of his wives,” he teased, highlighting the surreal experience post-surgery.
Far from just a personal narrative, Sir Alex’s reflections on that fateful day provide a stark reminder of the vital importance of healthcare professionals. He noted that out of five patients having similar procedures that day, only he and one other survived.
Ferguson’s heartfelt return to football after his operation was monumental. He described the day as “one of the most memorable” of his life, resonating with the warmth of the crowd’s reception, as if he had “returned from the dead.”
As we reflect on this remarkable story, Ferguson’s experience serves as a testament to resilience, the significance of timely medical care, and the unwavering support of loved ones. The remarkable ability of NHS staff to save lives underpins the very essence of community and compassion in healthcare.
*Games of My Life*, co-authored with Michael Moritz, is available for readers to explore these narratives and insights into the life of a football icon.