Paul Gascoigne Opens Up About Life, Death, and Recovery Journey

Former football star Paul Gascoigne has shared his harrowing experience of how he was resuscitated after his heart stopped during a rehabilitation process in Arizona. This revelation comes as part of his promotional efforts for his memoir, Eight, which details his struggles with alcoholism and his remarkable journey to recovery.

In 2013, Gascoigne was admitted to a clinic in Arizona, where he faced what he describes as the lowest point in his life due to his addiction. With the support of friends, including fellow footballers Chris Evans, Alan Shearer, and Danny Baker, he began a challenging path toward sobriety. During this critical period, he was placed in an induced coma for 18 days after doctors administered an injection that restarted his heart, a moment he recalls vividly.

Reflecting on that time, Gascoigne stated, “Looking back at what happened in Arizona, when I died on the operating table, that was really scary.” Upon awakening, he was overwhelmed and struggled to grasp the reality of his situation. He recounted a particular encounter in Newcastle shortly after his recovery, where a woman mistook him for dead, admitting, “I thought you were dead.” This confusion stemmed from rumors circulating online about his death.

Gascoigne indicated that without the specialized care he received in Arizona, his fate could have been different. He expressed gratitude for the clinic, saying, “If I had gone to any other rehab, I think that I would have been dead.” He continues to visit the clinic periodically as a reminder of his past struggles.

After returning to the UK, Gascoigne settled on the south coast, initially near a clinic in Bournemouth before moving to Poole, Dorset. Today, he engages with fans, maintains his fitness, and enjoys fishing. His memoir, set for release on October 23, 2023, offers an unflinching look at his battle with addiction alongside humorous anecdotes from his football career.

Throughout his life, Gascoigne has experienced both highs and lows. He fondly remembers his time as a player, including his infamous departure from Newcastle United to join Tottenham Hotspur in 1988. He humorously recounted a conversation with legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who expressed his disappointment over Gascoigne’s decision. “I was back at Old Trafford recently and Fergie gave me a right rollicking about that,” he said, reflecting on their past interactions.

While Gascoigne acknowledges the challenges he has faced, he also celebrates the positive aspects of his life. He has been honored as an ambassador for the England football team and is considered a cherished figure among fans. “I have the keys to the city of Newcastle, I am an ambassador for the England football team, they say I am a national treasure,” he remarked, expressing appreciation for the support he has received over the years.

Looking ahead, Gascoigne has no immediate plans to attend the upcoming World Cup, although he shared his insights on England’s prospects. He noted that while winning matches against lower-ranked teams is straightforward, facing formidable opponents like Italy, Portugal, and France will present a different challenge.

Gascoigne’s reflections on his journey encapsulate a life marked by resilience and transformation. His story serves as a reminder of the complexities of recovery and the enduring support of community and friendship. As he prepares for the release of Eight, he continues to inspire others with his candid account of both triumphs and tribulations in life and sport.