Liverpool's all-time leading goalscorer, Ian Rush, has given a harrowing account of his recent near-fatal encounter with a severe strain of influenza, known as 'super flu'. The 64-year-old football legend has described the terrifying moments when he genuinely believed his life was ending.
A Terrifying Night in Chester
Rush's ordeal began earlier this month at his home in Chester. He woke around 2am, struggling to breathe, and went downstairs. Despite having a doctor's appointment booked for 9am, his condition deteriorated rapidly by 4am. His fiancée, Carol, called an ambulance after seeing him fight desperately for air.
Paramedics arrived within ten minutes and stayed for over an hour. Initially feeling better, Rush declined a trip to hospital. However, just ten minutes after they left, he collapsed on the kitchen floor. "I was on the floor gasping for breath. I honestly thought this was it, I was a goner," Rush admitted in his first interview since the incident.
While waiting for a second ambulance, which took longer to arrive, Carol coached him through the panic, helping him to calm down and control his breathing. When paramedics returned, they found Rush pale and in need of oxygen. He was rushed under blue lights to the Countess of Chester Hospital.
Hospitalisation and a 'Second Chance' at Life
The Liverpool icon spent 48 hours in Accident and Emergency, followed by three days on a general ward. Carol remained by his bedside every night, and the football club he served so brilliantly offered immense support. "Liverpool Football Club were fantastic... They are a family club after all," Rush said, praising the club for going "above and beyond".
The experience served as a profound wake-up call. Rush revealed the illness made him reconsider his life, leading him to make three private vows for 2026. "Too often you always put things off. Well this was some reality check... It's like I've had a second chance and I'm determined to make the most of it," he stated.
Sunshine Recovery in Dubai and a Vital Health Message
Now recovering, Rush has travelled to Dubai on medical advice to aid his physical recuperation with sunshine. He is using world-class facilities, swimming regularly, and performing special breathing exercises three times daily. He is also in the region to participate in a world sports summit.
Rush ended his account with a crucial public health plea. He confirmed he had received his flu jab just before falling ill and was told the situation could have been far worse without it. His clear message to the public is: "don't hesitate to have yours."
