In a deeply personal and emotional revelation, Australian swimming legend Libby Trickett has shared that she endured a heart attack nearly a year ago. The four-time Olympic gold medallist, now 41, disclosed this shocking health crisis in a candid video posted to her Instagram account, detailing a condition that will impact her for the rest of her life.
A Sudden and Rare Cardiac Event
Trickett explained that in June of last year, approximately two months after welcoming her fifth child, Archie, she experienced what was later diagnosed as a spontaneous coronary artery dissection, commonly known as a SCAD. This specific type of heart attack is not caused by typical factors like plaque buildup but rather by a tear in the artery wall of the heart.
"It's a really kind of frustrating condition, as well, because not a lot of research has been put into it," Trickett stated in her video. "It almost exclusively happens to women under the age of 50, it commonly happens in pregnant women or women who have recently given birth."
Lifelong Implications and Lifestyle Adjustments
The Olympic champion emphasised that this diagnosis carries significant long-term consequences. She revealed that there is a risk of recurrence, and she will likely need to remain on medication indefinitely. Furthermore, the condition necessitates substantial lifestyle modifications.
"I can do moderate cardio exercise but I can't lift heavy weights," Trickett said, highlighting the restrictions she now faces. "There's question marks about [going on] rollercoasters and all different types of things."
Adding to the challenges, Trickett disclosed that she is unable to take medication for ADHD, a condition she was diagnosed with in August 2024. "I can't have ADHD medication, which is probably the thing that I'm saddest about," she admitted, noting that this has compounded the difficulties she is navigating.
Recent Hospitalisation and Ongoing Health Battles
In a subsequent update on social media, the mother of five shared that she was recently hospitalised due to a severe back problem. "I was in extraordinary pain, it required a steroid injection, two nights in hospital and lots of pain medication," she recounted.
Trickett also detailed the extensive medical testing she has undergone since the heart attack, including numerous blood tests, MRIs, CT scans, and ECGs (electrocardiograms). This series of health issues has created a tumultuous period for the athlete and her family.
Family Life and Personal Revelations
The heart attack occurred shortly after Trickett and her husband, Luke, announced they were expecting their fifth child in November 2024. At the time, she expressed being both "thrilled" and "terrified" by the news, which came just 18 months after the birth of their fourth child.
Regarding her ADHD diagnosis, Trickett explained last year that it was not entirely unexpected. "It wasn't a huge surprise, more a confirmation of something that I already knew was likely true," she wrote. "It does explain a lot for me, though, and I feel some comfort in understanding that my brain just works differently and I'm not just 'dumb'."
As Trickett continues to manage these complex health conditions, her openness about her struggles serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable challenges that can arise, even for elite athletes. Her journey underscores the importance of awareness and research into rare medical issues like SCAD, particularly as they affect women in the postpartum period.
