A man has died at the age of 33 after collapsing on stage during a body building competition in England.
On Sunday 18 October, just one day before his birthday, Mateusz Chmura collapsed while competing in the Physical Culture Association (PCA) British Finals at the Telford International Centre.
Medics rushed to Mr Chmura’s aid and treated him at the scene until paramedics arrived, PCA said in a statement on Instagram.
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He was taken to a nearby hospital a short time later where medical staff battled to save his life.
But despite the efforts of doctors and nurses, Mr Chmura died in hospital.
After discussions between organisers and contestant, the decision was made to allow the event to continue after Mr Chmura was transported to hospital.
But PCA said they made the call before the event had been alerted to Mr Chmura’s death.
“The event was stopped while Mateusz was treated,” the statement continued.
“Once he had left the venue for hospital, and before news of his death was known, we held a meeting with the athletes, and the decision to resume was taken following that meeting.”
The international bodybuilding and fitness federation also thanked first responders.
“Our heartfelt thanks go to the on-site medics, the trained medical professionals from the audience who stepped forward to assist, Midlands Air Ambulance and the hospital staff for everything they did for Mateusz,” it said.
“To everyone else who helped in any way, thank you. Your efforts will not be forgotten.
“We ask that the privacy of his loved ones be respected at this very difficult time.
“What happened was deeply distressing for everyone in attendance, and it is completely normal to be struggling with it. Please do not carry this alone.”
Mr Chmura leaves behind devastated wife, Patrycja Chmura, who said she was blown away by the outpouring of support during the “difficult time”.
“I want to thank every single person who has reached out, left a comment, sent a message or simply taken a moment to think about Mateusz,” she wrote on Instagram.
“I am reading every single comment, and I cannot begin to explain how much your kindness means to me.
“I am going through something incredibly painful, and right now I simply do not have the words or strength to say much more.”
Ms Chmura warned good Samaritans that a fraudulent fundraiser had been set up in the wake of her husband’s death.
“I have not authorised anyone to collect money on behalf of me or my family,” she added.
“I would never want anyone to lose their hard-earned money because they are trying to help us during such a difficult time.
The cause of Mr Chmura’s sudden collapse has not yet been revealed.
