Wayne Lineker, the 63-year-old brother of football legend Gary Lineker, has shared a candid update on his recovery from a severe bout of pneumonia that brought him close to death. The businessman revealed he is now relying on a zimmer frame to walk after the illness left him unable to move independently.
A Traumatic Near-Death Experience
Speaking from his hospital bed via Instagram on Thursday, Wayne detailed the "most traumatic" 16 days of his life, which he described as a "truly near-death experience." He explained that he initially caught an infection while in Dubai and flew home feeling desperately unwell. After a brief sleep at home, he woke up to discover he could not walk and had to call his daughter, Tia, for help.
An ambulance rushed him to Whipps Cross Hospital, where he was diagnosed with chronic pneumonia. The condition, which inflames the air sacs in the lungs and fills them with fluid, required immediate intervention. Wayne spent nine to ten days in intensive care before being moved to a respiratory ward.
Positive Steps in Recovery
Despite the ordeal, Wayne's latest update struck an optimistic tone. He underwent a life-saving operation to drain fluid from his chest, a procedure he credits with making him feel "night and day" better. A significant milestone was being able to get in and out of bed unaided for the first time.
"I've been walking today with a zimmer frame, probably about 200 yards," Wayne said. "I am incredibly grateful for this treatment and operation." He was due for further scans to confirm the pneumonia had cleared but felt confident, stating his chest felt "super clear."
Sobriety Credited for Survival
In a heartfelt reflection, Wayne Lineker believes his recent lifestyle changes were crucial to his survival. He fears he would not have been medically strong enough to pull through if he hadn't been four months sober at the time he fell ill.
He reserved special praise for the NHS staff who cared for him, calling them "incredible" and promising to show his gratitude in a special way next season. He also thanked his family and the public for their messages of love and support during his hospital stay.
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a serious chest infection affecting the lungs' air sacs. Key facts include:
- It is caused by bacteria or viruses, leading to inflammation and fluid build-up.
- Symptoms can include a cough with mucus, fever, chest pain, and severe fatigue.
- In the UK, it affects between 5 and 11 in every 1,000 adults annually.
- Treatment often involves antibiotics, with severe cases requiring hospital care.
