Abi Burton enjoyed a dream England debut in the Women’s Six Nations, scoring against Wales to make the perfect start to her international career. Her story is among the most remarkable in sport, having almost died from a rare brain illness three years ago. She spent 25 days in an induced coma and was forced to learn how to walk and talk all over again.
Burton started experiencing severe mood swings in 2021, shortly after representing Team GB at the Olympic Games. She was initially placed in a psychiatric ward because specialists thought she was either schizophrenic or bipolar, but these were ruled out through tests.
A blood test later revealed that Burton had autoimmune encephalitis, a rare condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain. She was put in a medically induced coma and spent 76 days in hospital, where she contracted pneumonia.
Fast forward three years and Burton is, quite incredibly, an England try scorer. She came off the bench in the second half against Wales and bundled over the line in the 73rd minute, marking her international debut in the perfect way.
It got even better for Burton when she bagged a second try with the last play of the game, helping the Red Roses to a thumping 67-12 victory at the Principality Stadium.
In her post-match interview, she said: “Oh gosh, I’m so excited. I just can’t put into words exactly what I feel like. I have been trying not to let the emotions get to me. Honestly, this group is unbelievable and I’m so grateful to be a part of it.
“It’s a dream debut. Earlier this week, when we came for the team run, I just stood here and absolutely relished it. It’s unbelievable and a dream come true.”
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