Olympic 400m silver medallist reveals he had the operation final month on the age of 58
One-lap legend Roger Black has revealed he had open coronary heart surgical procedure final month to deal with a situation he’s had since he was a toddler.
Black gained European and Commonwealth gold medals at 400m plus Olympic silver in 1996 behind Michael Johnson and world 4x400m gold in 1991 and 1997.
The 58-year-old stated on Instagram: “Three weeks in the past I had open coronary heart surgical procedure to switch my aortic valve and restore my aortic root. My ‘incompetent’ bicuspid aortic valve was found after I was 11 years outdated and for the final 47 years I’ve been sorted by the cardiac workforce at Southampton Basic Hospital.
“At my annual test up final summer season it was clear that issues had deteriorated regardless of me having no apparent signs. It was a shock however deep down I knew at the present time would come despite the fact that I by no means allowed my coronary heart illness to outline me and stop me from pursuing my athletics profession.”
Black praised the hospital workers who handled him earlier than additionally paying tribute to his spouse. “Most of all thanks to my spouse Jules who was there after I awoke in intensive care 11 hours after surgical procedure and has cared for me day-after-day in restoration. Every day has been about small steps – yesterday was a giant milestone as we walked to the highest of St Martha’s Hill… Our particular place.”
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