Basildon referee makes remarkable recovery through football

Stuart Nixon, Vice Chair of the Basildon Referees Association and League Referee Appointment Secretary for the Sceptre Sunday League, is celebrating a remarkable recovery that saw him return to the game just three weeks after a heart attack in July.

The Level Five Senior County Referee, credits the physical activity and strong social support network for helping him regain his health and confidence, but his journey back to the pitch began in dramatic circumstances.

He was rushed into surgery after feeling unwell, where doctors confirmed he had suffered a heart attack. A stent was fitted, shortly before discharge, his heart stopped twice, requiring CPR and the fitting of a defibrillator.

Stuart said: “While in hospital, I found out my heart was working at 25-30 per cent, when it should be 55-60 per cent.

"Two months after being discharged, I had a follow-up heart scan which had shown my heart back to 55-60 per cent, to the surprise of the cardiac team that were supporting me.

"I do believe exercise has helped me recover quickly, and refereeing does give that exercise. I have gained many great friends being a referee, who have definitely helped my recovery."

Stuart’s resilience highlights the mental and physical health benefits found throughout grassroots football, with the routine exercise, sense of purpose, camaraderie and structure all providing a vital outlet in helping him overcome a life-changing health event.

Resilient - Stuart got back into the game within three weeks of the health scare. (Image: Essex County FA)

The Essex County Football Association had supported Stuart by exploring alternative ways to stay involved in refereeing - such as observing and matchday coaching - but he was adamant to return to active officiating.

Lukas Wood, Essex County FA Referee Development Manager, said: “Stuart’s story is a powerful reminder of how grassroots football can support both physical and mental wellbeing.

"Refereeing not only offers regular exercise, but it places individuals within a supportive community. We’re incredibly proud of Stuart’s recovery and the role that football has played in helping him to return to doing what he loves.”

Now months on from the health scare, Stuart is thriving in his role as a grassroots referee, taking each game in his stride and encouraging a healthy active lifestyle for all.