A former Major League Baseball player is praising God after surviving a heart attack one day before his 62nd birthday.
Darryl Strawberry, who played for the New York Mets and Yankees, took to Instagram on Tuesday to thank God and the staff that saved his life.
"Praising God for His amazing grace and loving mercy in saving my life this evening from a heart attack," said Strawberry. "I am so happy and honoured to report that all is well. So thankful for the medical team and staff at St. Joseph West in Lake St. Louis for responding so quickly and bringing me through a stent procedure that has brought my heart to total restoration!!!"
The following day, his 62nd birthday, Strawberry posted a second photo to give thanks for his life.
"I have a lot to be grateful for on my 62nd birthday, celebrating the gift of my life and love of family! We thank God for this recovery process!"
After years of battling addictions, jail time, alcoholism, emotional wounds, divorces, separation from their children, unforgiveness, bitterness, and other life-controlling issues, Darryl and his wife, Tracy, surrendered. They have now started up a ministry, Finding Your Way, to help others do the same.
The day before Strawberry experienced his heart attack, he was speaking to a group of students at a Fellowship of Christian Athletes banquet in Indiana.
"God is doing amazing things with FCA," said Darryl in a post on Instagram. "Through this organization, lives are being transformed, athletes are finding purpose and meaning, and communities are being impacted. God’s hand is evident in the growth and success of FCA, and it is truly inspiring to witness the impact it has on individuals and the world of sports."
With a long road to recovery ahead of him, Darryl continues to ask for prayer.
"Your prayers are so absolutely appreciated as I continue to recover, in Jesus' Name!"
Strawberry was named MLB's Rookie of the Year in 1983. He also became an eight-time All-Star and three-time World Series Champion.