Hong Kong rugby coach has new perspective ahead of potentially fatal surgery – says ‘life is more beautiful than you think’
- Jonathan Mo is months away from a heart procedure with a 40 per cent chance of survival
- Valley coach believes rugby is important but wants players to know they need to experience the world beyond the pitch
For Jonathan Mo rugby was everything. His life revolved around it and he dreamed of growing up to be a professional player.
He was on the cusp of realising his dream in 2013 when he finished a three-month trial with the Panasonic Wild Knights in Japan.
But a week later Mo collapsed on the street and was rushed to hospital. At 19, he developed a heart condition and was forced to stop chasing a high level of rugby and instead insert a pacemaker.
Even with his limitations he was determined to stay part of the community. He played at a lower level and began to coach for the Valley Mavericks in Hong Kong.
But Mo’s final game has been played. Even in a social team his heart rate shot up, and he sought medical advice.
The 23-year-old was told he needs a risky heart operation. In October, he will go under the knife with a 40 per cent chance of survival.