Soccer is the very heart of so many people around the world. They love playing and watching the game. Unfortunately, tragedy struck the sport for the second time in less than a month. Just a few weeks ago, Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba suffered cardiac arrest during a FA Cup match in England. Muamba was able to be revived and appears to be on the road to recovery. Italian Piermario Morosini was not as fortunate. Morosini was playing for Livorno, while on loan from Udinese. During today's match, Morosini collapsed on the field suddenly. He tried to get up, but fell once again. Play continued for quite a bit, as no one knew the seriousness of what was taking place. Medical personnel tried to revive the fallen Morosini, but were unable to do anything. Leonardo Paloscia, a doctor in attendance at the game, was the first respondent. Afterwards, he said, "Morosini never had a single heartbeat again."
Morosini used soccer to help overcome a difficult youth. His father died when he was only two years old. His mother died when he was 15, and his brother passed away shortly after. This left him an orphan with just an older sister left as family. Morosini excelled as a footballer and played for many Italian clubs. He also made 18 appearances for Italy's U-21 squad. He died at the age of 25.
Morosini's death reminds us just how fragile life can be. Soccer is a physically draining game. Running continually for 90+ minutes is not an easy task for one's body. My hope is that some good will come from this tragedy. I would implore all athletes to go get a thorough checkup at a doctor's office. Don't get me wrong. I am not saying that Morosini's death would have been preventable. That we cannot know. I am just saying take what precautions you can. Live a healthy life, love those around you, and make sure that you are right with God. Death can occur just this suddenly. My prayers and thoughts go out to Piermario Morosini's family and friends during this difficult time.
Photo Credit: Dino Panato/Getty Images
No comments:
Post a Comment