A FORMER Ipswich Town youth team winger who suffered a serious stroke is today preparing to raise funds for Ipswich Hospital to say thank you to the doctors who saved his life.

Johnny McLaughlin, from Rushmere, was rushed to hospital in May last year after he collapsed at his home – and it later emerged that doctors believed his stroke was “18 out of 20” in terms of seriousness.

At the hospital, staff contacted a consultant in London who informed them about a new drug which could be used for stroke victims.

Mr McLaughlin was told the drug would have a 30 per cent chance of working and a 70pc chance of making it worse. He decided to take it and his condition improved dramatically after just a few hours.

Within two weeks he was released from hospital.

“They got me to hospital fairly quickly and I was paralysed on one side,” said the former Suffolk county player.

“I couldn’t move, I couldn’t do anything at all.

“I’m very lucky and very appreciative, that’s why I want to raise money for them – they do such a good job.

“I will never forget it – if it wasn’t for them I would be being nursed in a bed. I feel very fortunate.”

The 60-year-old has now arranged a golf tournament at Fynn Valley Golf Club, on September 28, to raise funds for three new shower chairs at the stroke unit at Ipswich Hospital, which cost around �1,800 each.

He added: “I just want to give something back if I can.

“I’m a keen golfer and I know a lot of people in the football and golf world so I thought I would raise some money for them in that way.”

It will cost �100 to enter a team of four in the McLaughlin charity event.

Entry forms can be obtained by e-mailing johnnyemac@hotmail.com or calling 07810 261706.