British Heart Foundation heroes to deliver match ball at Scarlets for Heart Health Month

In a powerful tribute to the importance of lifesaving skills, the match ball will be delivered by two pairs of individuals whose lives have been forever changed by quick thinking and CPR.

Joining us on the pitch are Brodie Hatfield and his father, Rob. At just 14 years old, Brodie saved his father’s life by performing CPR after Rob suffered a cardiac arrest at home. Drawing on training he received in a science class at Craigmount High School, Brodie kept his father stable until paramedics arrived.

His extraordinary bravery was recognized nationally when he was named a CPR Hero at the 2024 BHF Heart Hero Awards in London.

Also delivering the match ball are Dillon Naismith and Robert Donald. In 2017, Dillon suffered a cardiac arrest while playing for Cumnock RFC. His coach, Robert, immediately stepped in to perform resuscitation before emergency services reached the grounds.

Following his recovery and a diagnosis of a heart condition, Dillon now lives with an Implanted Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) and continues to give back to the sport he loves as a coach at Cumnock RFC.

David McColgan, Head of British Heart Foundation Scotland, said: “Being part of the Ball Delivery Experience with Edinburgh Rugby is an incredible opportunity for British Heart Foundation Scotland to shine a spotlight on the real heroes among us – the people whose quick thinking and lifesaving skills change lives forever.

This opportunity allows us to recognise individuals like Brodie Hadfield and Robert Donald, whose courage and immediate action in moments of crisis saved the lives of Rob and Dillon.

“Brodie was only 14 when he stepped in to deliver CPR that helped save his dad’s life – a skill he learned in a school science class. Robert reacted just as instinctively when Dillon collapsed on the pitch, using his first aid training to resuscitate him before emergency crews arrived. Their actions are extraordinary examples of how lifesaving skills like CPR can make all the difference.

“As they walk out at Hive Murrayfield on Friday night, we’re not just celebrating their bravery — we’re highlighting the power and importance of learning CPR. Brodie and Robert embody the very best of our communities, and we are proud to recognise their contribution to society on such a special stage.

“We’d like to thank the team at Edinburgh Rugby as such an experience is only possible thanks to our partnership and the club’s commitment to supporting BHF Scotland and our aims of improving heart health in Edinburgh, Scotland, and beyond.”