Darryl Strawberry, the legendary three-time World Series champion, shares his harrowing experience of suffering a massive heart attack, praising his wife's quick thinking and the medical team's life-saving intervention.
Darryl Strawberry, the baseball legend renowned for his iconic career with the New York Mets, has emerged from a near-death experience with a newfound appreciation for the fragility of life. In an exclusive interview with TMZ, the 62-year-old former slugger recounted the terrifying heart attack he suffered in March, leaving his heart pumping at a mere 40% of its capacity.
Credited as his guardian angel, Strawberry's wife Tracy played a pivotal role in recognizing the warning signs and promptly rushing him to the emergency room. "You just never know. If it wasn't for my lovely wife rushing me to the hospital, I could be on the other side right now," Strawberry expressed with heartfelt gratitude.
Upon his arrival at the hospital, doctors swiftly deployed a life-saving stent procedure, effectively restoring Strawberry's heart to "total restoration." The New York Mets, in a testament to his legacy, are set to retire his iconic No. 18 jersey in a grand ceremony.
Strawberry, who spent his birthday in a hospital bed amidst his health crisis, reflected on the harrowing experience. "I'm recovering well. I thank God for it. You just never know. I'm in great shape, 62 years old, and I have a massive heart attack. I'm here this weekend, celebrating the fact my number is being retired, but your health is the most important thing," Strawberry emphasized to TMZ.
The Mets will honor Strawberry's illustrious career when they host the Arizona Diamondbacks on June 1st. In a moment of profound gratitude, Strawberry expressed his sincerest appreciation to the medical team at the St. Louis hospital where he received life-saving care.
"Praising God for His amazing grace and loving mercy in saving my life this evening from a heart attack," Strawberry wrote in a heartfelt social media post shortly after the incident. "I am so happy and honored to report that all is well. So thankful for the medical team and staff at St. Joseph West in Lake St. Louis for responding so quickly and bringing me through a stent-procedure that has brought my heart to total restoration!!!"
Recognizing the severity of his condition, Strawberry acknowledged the astonishment expressed by the medical staff. "The doctor said, 'I don't even know how you are alive.' There was not a lot of blood flowing through my heart, and three months later, I am back healthy," Strawberry remarked, marveling at his recovery.
Strawberry's journey back to health has been remarkable, defying the odds and proving that with timely intervention and the support of loved ones, even life-threatening events can be overcome. The beloved former Met serves as an inspiration, reminding us to cherish our health and celebrate the precious moments of life.
