Brian's Story: How health & wellbeing staff saved the Fit Rovers participant's life

Club Doncaster Foundation is raising money for a new defibrillator at the Eco-Power Stadium.  

In October 2021, Fit Rovers participant Brian Hindmarch collapsed mid-workout, and thanks to the quick actions of instructors Phoebe Sneddon, Lauren Cuttell, and the defibrillator they used, the pair saved Brian’s life. 

Money raised by the Foundation will go directly towards a new machine that could save someone else's life. 

Community development manager Nick Gillott said: “We pride ourselves on having well-trained members of staff. 

“At the Foundation we could not be any prouder of the way Phoebe and Lauren dealt with such an unfortunate incident and how professionally they dealt with it.  

“I would urge anyone to look at the restart a heart and take part in some training.”  

Once fully recovered, Brian – a Sunderland fan – was invited a VIP guest for Rovers’ Sky Bet League One match against the Black Cats where he was presented with a signed Sunderland shirt that was all organised by Club Doncaster’s Foundation.  

CEO John Davis commented, “We are immensely proud of how this was handled by our trained staff but also by those that supported the wider process of getting the help Brian needed.”

“From the stadium team who signposted the ambulances to the Sodexo and NHS staff who were supporting with CPR, it was a real team effort.”

“Finally everyone at the Foundation would like to thank our fantastic NHS for ensuring Brian’s safety and recovery.”

To make a donation that could save someone’s life click here.