A Malaysian man has urged others to pay closer attention to their health before taking part in strenuous physical activities after witnessing his friend collapse and later die during a badminton session.
In a Facebook post, Jerry said he and several friends had gathered for a friendly badminton match on Tuesday (Sept 22) when his friend, identified as Chong, suddenly stopped playing halfway through the game.
Chong reportedly stepped outside to sit down and get some fresh air.
Jerry said his friend remained outside for more than 30 minutes before returning and telling the group that he wanted to pack up and go home to rest.
According to Jerry, Chong had told some of their friends that he had been feeling unusually tired, was stressed from work and had not been getting enough rest.
His friends encouraged him to return home and take it easy.
Collapsed While Packing Up
After picking up his belongings, Chong went outside and sat down to remove his badminton shoes.
He then suddenly slumped to the ground.
Jerry said the group immediately rushed to his aid, with several people taking turns performing CPR while another person called for an ambulance.
“Several people took turns performing CPR. I stayed beside him, holding his head and fanning him while everyone did whatever we could to help,” he wrote.
Jerry said more than 30 minutes passed before paramedics arrived and took over the resuscitation efforts.
The emergency team administered oxygen, used an automated external defibrillator (AED) and continued attempts to revive Chong.
Sadly, Chong died later that afternoon.
Jerry said a post-mortem subsequently found that a blocked artery had triggered a heart attack.
‘Listen To Your Body’
The incident left Jerry traumatised, particularly after witnessing his friend lose consciousness and seeing several people desperately attempt to save him.
He said the experience was something he did not think he would ever forget.
Jerry then urged Malaysians not to overlook their health, regardless of their age or fitness level, and encouraged people to undergo regular health check-ups.
“It doesn’t matter whether you are young, old, fit, active or play badminton several times a week. Get your health checked regularly. Get enough sleep. Manage your stress. Don’t push yourself endlessly because of work,” he wrote.
Most importantly, he urged people to pay attention to warning signs from their bodies rather than pushing through exhaustion.
“No game, work deadline or commitment is more important than your health. Please don’t compromise when it comes to taking care of yourself,” he said.
“We only have one life. There will always be another badminton game to play.”
He also expressed his condolences to Chong’s family following the loss.
