Damien Martyn: 50/50 Chance to Survive Meningitis, Now Home
Damien Martyn: 50/50 Chance to Survive Meningitis, Now Home
Former Australia batter Damien Martyn reveals he faced a 50/50 survival odds after meningitis, eight days in an induced coma, and is now home and recovering.
The 54-year-old former Australia batter, who played 67 Test matches between 1992 and 2006, fell ill in late December and spent eight days in an induced coma. He woke last week and has since left hospital, posting a message of thanks to those who treated him and supported his family. "On the 27th of December 2025 my life was taken out of my hands when meningitis took over my brain," Martyn wrote. "Unbeknownst to me, I was placed into a paralysed coma to help me fight this awful disease. And that I did! Fight that is!"
After being told he had a 50/50 chance of surviving, he emerged eight days later not able to walk or talk. Yet four days on, doctors were astonished when he began walking and speaking again, prompting his release from hospital to start recovery. He later posted a photo of himself on a beach, grateful for the support of paramedics at Mermaid Waters Ambulance, staff at Gold Coast University Hospital, and his family and friends.
Meningitis is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, a condition that can progress rapidly and be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Martyn’s experience underscores how quickly things can change and how precious recovery can feel when life is on the line. He thanked a wide network of medical personnel and well-wishers who stood by him through the ordeal and called on others to appreciate every moment.
Now back home on the Gold Coast, he’s focusing on recovery and rebuilding his strength, with his future plans likely to include time with loved ones and continued medical follow-up. The cricket community and fans have sent messages of support, celebrating his resilience and wishing him well on the road ahead.
