Great North Run Competitor Left Disabled After Early Hospital Discharge for Heatstroke

Luke Oldfield, a 25-year-old competitor in the 2019 Great North Run, suffered life-changing disabilities after collapsing from heatstroke at the finish line and being prematurely discharged from South Tyneside District Hospital. Despite reporting memory loss and having abnormal ECG results, he was sent home hours after admission without adequate monitoring or safety advice. Days later, he experienced multi-organ failure and a severe brain injury, resulting in permanent impairments to his mobility, speech, and vision, leaving him wheelchair-bound. The South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust has apologized for the breach of duty, acknowledging that Luke should have been monitored longer, although it remains unclear if this would have altered his outcome. Luke spent nearly two years in hospital and rehabilitation, undergoing an emergency liver transplant and brain surgery, yet remains determined to rebuild his life and continue his PhD studies. The trust has implemented measures to prevent similar incidents, while Luke hopes his story raises awareness about the dangers of heatstroke and inspires others facing life-altering challenges.