Max George made difficult decision in hospital after thinking he was ‘going to die’

In December 2022, Max George, the lead singer of the British band The Wanted, experienced a medical emergency that nearly cost him his life. At 36 years old, he was diagnosed with an atrioventricular heart block, a condition that affects the heart's rhythm, leading to a reduced heart rate. This diagnosis resulted in an urgent hospitalization where he ultimately received a pacemaker to regulate his heartbeat. The singer had been feeling unwell for several days prior but did not initially suspect the severity of his condition. Fortunately, he was at his mother Babs' house when his symptoms escalated, prompting her to seek medical help on his behalf. After a restless night filled with dread, amid thoughts that he could be dying, Max took the decision to write his will, reflecting on his responsibilities towards his partner, family, and nephews. He voiced concerns about what would happen to his loved ones if he did not survive the surgery. His mother played a crucial role in ensuring he received quick medical attention. Following a series of consultations, including calling a doctor friend for a second opinion after a GP visit proved unsatisfactory, they were advised to go to A&E. Ultimately, Max's surgery was performed on December 18, 2022. The procedure lasted about three hours, and he was relieved to find that he was greeted by his girlfriend, actress Maisie Smith, upon waking up. His feelings of panic and fear shifted to a sense of relief and a newfound appreciation for life as he recovered from the surgery. In light of his experience, he expressed that receiving the pacemaker was the best Christmas present he could wish for, as it gave him a renewed lease on life. To share his journey with fans, he frequently updated his social media, showcasing his commitment to recovery and gratitude for his support system during this challenging time. Max’s health scare serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, particularly for seemingly healthy individuals. The contrast between his energetic past, including a month-long tour before his health emergency, and the turbulence of facing such a severe condition has deeply impacted his outlook on life. The singer's ability to triumph through this critical period reflects not only his personal resilience but also highlights the importance of timely medical intervention. He now hopes to raise awareness about heart conditions, particularly in younger individuals like himself so that others might receive the help they need before it's too late.