It is always shocking when athletes, in the prime of their activity, suffer from illnesses or conditions that are normally associated with much older people or others who do not lead healthy lifestyles.

Just as much as Italy – and not only – was shocked with the death of Marco Simoncelli during a motorcycling race in Sepang, another athlete from an altogether different sport was very much in the news in our neighbouring country all through this week following his collapse late last Saturday.

Antonio Cassano, 29, made the headlines all around the world when, following the return flight from Rome to Milan after his club had played a league game, he felt seriously unwell and was rushed to hospital.

Several theories started to emerge thereafter but it took another four days for an official statement to be made by AC Milan, in conjunction with the doctors treating their striker, saying that he needed a minor operation for a heart anomaly.

The surgery was carried out yesterday and it will take Cassano between four to six months to recover. This means that he could miss the rest of the season, and probably also the Euro 2012 championships.

Cassano’s condition adds to the woes of Italy coach Cesare Prandelli who, in a week, lost the two strikers that have greatly contributed to Italy’s qualification to next year’s championships. Besides Cassano, Giuseppe Rossi will also be missing up to six months of activity after an injury he sustained to his knee – an injury that is more likely to happen to a footballer than the one Cassano suffered.

Of course, health comes before all other considerations, and it is positive to note that, in spite of what he is going through and the long time it will take for him to recover, Cassano will still be able to continue his professional career. Rightly so, doctors are being extremely cautious in his regard, but all have agreed that with the right treatment, Cassano will be back on the field of play.

Cassano was at the prime of his career before last Saturday’s incident. Nobody ever disputed his natural talent, but his frequent antics often made more news than his goals. This last year however, the player seems to have matured in his behaviour, largely also thanks to the birth of his daughter.

One hopes that Cassano will be able to return to professional football in the shortest time possible. But this should not be done at the expense of his health.