Michael Johnson, 51, suffered a mini stroke four months ago despite still living an active lifestyle after retiring in 2008. But, the world champion, revealed he has no idea what brought it on and admitted he may never know. He told BBC Sport: “We’ve sort of concluded that we’ll probably never find that cause. It’s something I’ve had to come to terms with.
“If I knew what the cause was, I could potentially do something about it and feel much better knowing that this is what caused it and now I have eliminated that potential issue. Unfortunately, I don’t have that luxury.”
Michael went on to say he had fears it could happen again, adding: “Obviously that could create a little bit of fear, that I was doing all the right things before the stroke and now am doing all the right things again, even more. Yet it could happen again.”
Back in September Michael took to Twitter to speak out about his stroke, telling his 84,000 followers he had made a “full recovery”.
He wrote: “Last week I rather surprisingly suffered what’s known as a Transient Ischemic Attack or mini stroke.
“The good news is I’m back at home with my family, cleared of any heart issues and have already made great progress on my road to a full recovery.”
He followed up his post, writing: “It seems these things can affect anyone, even the once fastest man in the world!
“I’m no stranger to a good exercise plan and have thrown myself into it with my usual focus and determination.”
Two weeks later he shared a post of him working out with some weights and told his fans he was better after learning to walk again.
He commented: “A month ago today I suffered a stroke. I could not walk.
“Doctors said only time will tell if I will recover or to what degree.
“Its been gruelling work but made a full recovery, re-learned how to walk and today doing agility drills! Thanks for the messages of encouragement!”
Many of his social media fans flocked to his post to send their well wishes.
One user commented: “Good luck, keep at it Michael. Best wishes.”
A second wrote: “Wow that’s cruel to happen so young but awesome you’ve recovered so well mate.”
A third added: “Fantastic to hear you’re doing well – well done.”