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Rugby Star's Traumatic Brain Illness Comeback
18 Mar
Summary
- Abi Burton battled autoimmune encephalitis after Tokyo Olympics.
- She faced a medically induced coma and memory loss.
- Burton made a remarkable return to play in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Two-time Olympian Abi Burton, 26, has recounted her life-threatening battle with autoimmune NMDA receptor encephalitis, a condition she was diagnosed with at age 22.
The severe illness, which caused significant behavioural changes and memory loss, led to her being placed in a medically induced coma.
Burton's family noticed concerning changes after her Tokyo 2021 Olympic appearance, initially attributing them to injury or stress.
Her symptoms escalated, including aggression, prompting a psychiatric unit admission where a blood test confirmed the encephalitis diagnosis.
Encephalitis International's CEO, Dr. Ava Easton, explained the condition as brain inflammation, either from infection or the immune system attacking the brain.
Burton supported Encephalitis International's F.L.A.M.E.S. campaign, designed to help recognize early warning signs of the illness.
Despite ineffective plasma exchanges, she received immunotherapy with Rituximab, eventually recovering enough to pursue rugby.
Her strong family support and personal resilience were key to her recovery and return to elite sport.
Burton's journey inspired her to represent England at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, achieving a goal doctors once deemed unlikely.
She now emphasizes appreciating each moment, stating that selection doesn't define her.
