Pat Symcox relieved to return home after health scare: 'I am truly blessed'

Former Proteas cricketer Pat Symcox says he feels blessed to return home after a health scare saw him undergo an operation.

After experiencing a tingling feeling in his foot and battling to walk, Symcox was rushed to a KwaZulu-Natal hospital on Tuesday where a stent was inserted in his leg.

He spent the night in ICU but recovered sufficiently to return home.

On Thursday morning, Symcox posted an update on his Facebook page where he shed more light on the experience.

"They say you never service a Rolls Royce but mine had to have a tweak to the plugs to keep it in good shape. What an experience it was to have a stent inserted in my leg and feel the warmth in my foot again," he wrote on Wednesday night.

Symcox, who played 20 Tests and 80 ODIs for South Africa in the 1990s, said it was the first time in 57 years that he had gone under the knife.

"For those who have not been in an ICU, it is a place that forces one to confront your own mortality. As you look around the place you realise how vulnerable you actually are. I had not been under anaesthetic since I was five - and that was for tonsils. So, I've done well for 57 years."

Symcox added that he was given the all-clear by the medical staff to return home. He thanked his well-wishers for their support.

"Once I moved to the ward and saw my precious little ones and how they treasured visiting me, it was time to negotiate a way out. My vitals were all good and the Doc was happy that I could go home to rest for a few days before starting up the engine again.

"Thanks for all the wonderful wishes posted, sent to me and Estelle and prayers from so many. It is humbling and I am truly blessed."