Freddie Flintoff hails NHS ‘superheroes’ who saved his life after awful Top Gear crash
Freddie Flintoff made an emotional return to St George’s Hospital in Tooting earlier this week to express his appreciation to the medical team who saved his life following a devastating accident during Top Gear filming.
The 47-year-old former cricket star suffered critical injuries when he was dragged along the ground for 50 metres at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey whilst recording the BBC motoring programme in 2022.
During his recent visit to the south London hospital, Flintoff spent time reconnecting with the surgeons, nurses and support staff who provided his emergency care.
The presenter, whose real name is Andrew, was helicoptered to the facility after the severe incident left him fearing his face had been ripped away.
Speaking about the medical professionals who cared for him, Flintoff said: “I just want to say a massive thank you to all the staff at St George’s.
“I came here probably the lowest I’ve ever been, in need of help and the expertise, the love, the compassion they showed me was incredible. I’ll be eternally grateful absolute superheroes.”
The cricket legend’s heartfelt words reflected the profound impact the hospital team had on his recovery journey.
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His visit included meetings with key members of his care team, including consultant Shamim Umarji, registrar William Harland, dental nurse Linda Holden and orthodontic nurse Sonia Steer.
The medical professionals who treated Flintoff shared their reflections on both the severity of his case and the meaningful nature of his return visit.
Surgeon Shamim Umarji remarked: “It’s very rewarding when patients come back and you get to see them not just as patients, but as people. It’s a real privilege.
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“When you see their recovery, you remember how important our job is. It was wonderful to see Freddie again and his visit gave staff a real boost. He spent a lot of time chatting to everyone and it meant a lot.”
Consultant Jahrad Haq, who was specifically brought in due to the gravity of Flintoff’s condition, revealed the exceptional complexity of the case.
He stated: “A lot of injuries are managed at a more junior level so I knew this one was serious. Of all the trauma cases I’ve seen in over 20 years, this was among the most complex.”
Kate Slemeck, who serves as managing director at St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, expressed pride in the institution’s standard of care.
She commented: “I’m incredibly proud of the care we provide. It’s always heart-warming to hear from patients about the expert care, compassion and kindness they’ve received from our clinical and support teams, and this shows the lasting impact they have on people, long after they’ve left hospital.”
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The former England all-rounder documented his traumatic experience and recovery process in a Disney+ programme titled “Flintoff” which aired earlier this year.
Since the accident, the 47-year-old has coached England cricket players. The sport has welcomed him back with open arms following his near-death experience three years ago.