Jamaica’s Kemoy Campbell underwent surgery on Friday to replace the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) that saved him in a near-death experience on Tuesday.
Campbell, who retired from track and field last September, seven months after collapsing at the Millrose Games in New York, was fitted with a new ICD. However, the new one will act as a pacemaker.
“This is because, in order to give me medication for arrhythmias, my heart rate needs to beat faster. They are hoping this will help prevent any further incident,” Campbell posted on Instagram below a picture of him in a hospital bed.
Campbell was driving on Tuesday when he began to pass out. Fortunately, his ICD provided an electrical shock that got his heart beating again allowing him to pull over and call emergency services.
However, he is not out of the woods just yet, as he says he needs help in covering the expenses related to his surgery and medical care.
“Unfortunately, I am going to need everyone’s help again as the medical expenses will be high once again. If there is anything you can give it would really mean a lot,” said the Jamaican Olympian.
“Thank you for all the support I have received and all of the generosity. It really means a lot.”
You can donate to Kemoy’s cause at www.gofundme/f/67e5h-kemoy-campbell-support-fund