Kevin Ross, a 66-year-old from Frome, Somerset, is urging older adults to stay vigilant about their health following a near-fatal heart attack on the football pitch. In July 2024, Kevin was playing a friendly game with friends when, moments after scoring a goal, he collapsed unexpectedly.
Recalling the incident, Kevin said, “It was a normal game, and we were nearly at the end. Just before the final whistle, somebody took a corner, and I went up for it. At the end of the play, I was on the ground.”
Initially, his friends assumed he was celebrating his goal, but it soon became clear that something was seriously wrong. Kevin had stopped breathing, prompting the immediate call of emergency services. Within minutes, three paramedic cars and an air ambulance arrived to provide urgent care.
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Kevin was without breath for four minutes before being revived with a defibrillator located nearby. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “If it hadn’t been for that defibrillator, the last thing I would have done on this Earth would have been scoring a goal.”
Due to the severity of the incident, Kevin has no clear memory of the event. However, he was informed that when paramedics asked for his age, he mistakenly said “20” and appeared confused about why his wife, who was present, seemed much older than him.
Subsequent medical assessments revealed that Kevin had dangerously high cholesterol and a chronic arterial blockage, despite previously experiencing no symptoms.
Now, Kevin is urging others to take advantage of free NHS Health Checks if they are eligible. These checks are available every five years for people aged between 40 and 74 who do not already have a diagnosed health condition.
Speaking about his condition, the retired drama teacher said, “I’d been told I had high cholesterol, but I hadn’t realised how serious it was. I considered myself really fit, so it was a huge shock. My message is simple-get checked out as much as possible.”
Evie Potts-Jones, lead member for public health at Somerset Council, emphasises the importance of the health checks: “Kevin’s story is a powerful reminder that serious health problems don’t always come with warning signs. NHS Health Checks provide a straightforward way to understand your risk and take control of your health early on.”
She added, “Many people feel fit and assume everything is fine, but a quick check could make all the difference. I strongly encourage anyone eligible to take up their NHS Health Check; it could help prevent something much more serious.”
Two years after his ordeal, Kevin continues to face challenges but has resumed activities he is passionate about. Although retired, he still teaches after-school drama classes and regularly kicks a ball around.
His football club, Comeback United, offers older men a chance to enjoy the game together while staying fit. Kevin explained, “The idea was for former players to roll back the years and enjoy playing for a while. It’s been a very positive thing for me-and of course, it saved my life as well!”
NHS Health Checks can be booked online for those who are eligible.