We are fundraising for Tevita Bryce, who suffered a major heart attack and stroke at 28 years old. This occurred in the middle of a rugby game on the field. Trained players from the opposing team began CPR and thankfully had an AED on site to bring him back and keep him alive long enough for First Responders to arrive. 28 minutes of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and lost his pulse multiple times. I am very happy to say he is alive and is in ICU at St. Clare’s Denville Hospital. Doctors and First Responders said it’s a true miracle he’s alive.
Background on Tevita:
Tevita has played Rugby for his entire life. Born and played in the small island of Tonga, he received a scholarship to play at University in New Zealand. He then got a professional contract to play for the Akita Bullets in Japan. Few years later he met his wife and he received a new offer to play for Canada. That year they got married here in the US, but 2 days after they signed at the court house, his mother was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. He dropped everything immediately. No wedding, left his apartment and life behind in Japan to go be with his mom. Dumped everything he had into Chemo for her, but unfortunately, eventually she lost her battle. Tevita received his Green-card to move himself, my sister and his 16 month old son to the US in July with little to nothing.
Why we need your help:
Tevita has begun working only 4 weeks ago and has no benefits or insurance. He will be in ICU for at least 5-7 days. The operated to clear the artery in his groin, then moved all the way up to his heart. Had another heart attack during surgery and flat lined and brought back AGAIN after another 4 shocks from the AED. He’s a fighter! Still running more test for any damage with oxygen loss and checking all other arteries. Will be a long road to recovery but thankfully he’s alive.
Montclair Rugby Club 