A Shocking Diagnosis
England goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck, a rising star in the world of women’s football, recently opened up about the harrowing stroke she suffered at the age of 24. Her journey began around the Christmas period of 2023 when she first noticed something was amiss. At the time, her club, Manchester City, believed her symptoms were indicative of a concussion. However, further scans revealed a far more worrying truth. In a candid interview with BBC Sport, Roebuck recounted the moment when the doctor broke the news to her. "It filled me with panic, but I never had in my mind that it was a stroke," she said. The doctor described it as an infarct in her left occipital lobe, a type of ischemic stroke caused by a blood clot that had clogged an artery in her brain. Roebuck, like many, had to ask, "What’s that in English?" Only then did she realize the gravity of the situation.
The Visionary Miracle
An occipital infarct can lead to severe visual disturbances, including blurry vision, hallucinations, and, in the worst cases, blindness. Given the location and nature of her stroke, Roebuck was fully aware of the potential consequences. "I’m lucky because I should have lost my vision," she explained. "I should have lost my peripheral vision for sure. The majority of people who suffer a stroke like mine do that. So, I probably should have been blind, which is quite a miracle that that didn’t happen." This realization was both a source of profound relief and a reminder of the fragility of life. Roebuck’s journey since then has been one of resilience and gratitude, as she continues to defy the odds and embrace her remarkable recovery.
Emotional and Physical Challenges
The initial weeks following her diagnosis were filled with fear and uncertainty. Roebuck’s first question to the medical team was, "Am I going to play football again?" The answers she received were not what she wanted to hear. The nurses advised her to refrain from carrying shopping for six weeks and to avoid any form of exercise. As a professional footballer, such restrictions felt like an insurmountable challenge. "I wouldn’t walk my dog for like six weeks. I wouldn’t leave the house. I was scared to do anything on my own," Roebuck recalled. For someone who had always been fiercely independent, this period of dependency was particularly difficult. Her parents stepped in, taking turns to live in her one-bedroom flat in Manchester, providing the support and care she desperately needed during her recovery.
Fulfilling a Dream
Despite the setback, Roebuck’s determination never wavered. Just weeks after her diagnosis, she had signed a pre-contract agreement to join Barcelona in the summer. Miraculously, she was able to fulfill this dream. Now 25, Roebuck made her long-awaited debut for Barcelona in December, a 4-1 win over Real Betis, 303 days after her diagnosis and more than 18 months since her last professional match. The moment was a testament to her resilience and the unwavering support she received from her family and medical team. Roebuck’s return to the pitch was not just a personal victory but an inspiration to others facing similar health challenges.
A Triumphant Career
Roebuck’s football journey has been nothing short of impressive. She was a part of the triumphant Lionesses team that won the Euros in 2022 and helped the squad reach the World Cup final a year later. Her skills and presence on the field have earned her 11 caps for England, solidifying her status as a key player for the national team. However, her return to international football is not guaranteed, and she knows the road ahead is challenging. "It’s difficult because that’s something that’s not in my hands as such," Roebuck admitted. "Nothing is given. I know that’s not an easy journey. And I know that I need to be playing consistently week in, week out."
A Journey of Strength and Dedication
For Roebuck, the recovery process is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a journey of self-discovery and growth. "Now I’m prioritizing the things that are most important, and that’s being the best goalkeeper I can possibly be," she stated with conviction. Her experience has given her a renewed perspective on her career and life. Roebuck is determined to make a comeback and prove that she can still compete at the highest level. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength and dedication required to overcome adversity and the importance of supporting one another through life’s toughest moments. As she continues to push for a recall to the national team, Roebuck remains focused on her goal and the journey that lies ahead.
