What Happened to Richard Bland’s Brother? Exploring the Inspiring Story of His Survival

The Bland family was shocked when they heard the news. But reality kicked in hard. It was just six years ago when Heath, the elder brother of LIV Golf Pro Richard Bland, returned home after a life-threatening lung problem. However, it was clear from the reports that Heath had been diagnosed with cancer. 

Almost a year has passed, and the 55-year-old from Totton has been undergoing treatment for cancer. Heath was in the hospital until recently, undergoing treatment. Bland has mentioned his brother as the biggest inspiration several times. And the world will witness the brothers together soon. 

Heath Bland will cheer for his brother from outside the ropes

Since Heath’s diagnosis, it has been a waiting game for the Bland brothers. Eventually, the treatment started, and the good news is that Bland’s elder brother is likely to be in attendance when LIV stops at JCB Golf & Country Club London in June. Flushing It Golf tweeted, “Heath is home from the hospital after being treated for cancer. He’s hoping to be able to watch Rich at the JCB Club later this year for LIV UK with his family and friends, and they’ve had these hats made.”

Bland has spoken about his brother’s influence multiple times. Last March, the former Betfred British Masters winner said, “You don’t really think about that on the golf course, but it’s just one of those added incentives to make me play a little better—for him.” Bland, who fired shots at Luke Donald last year, will, of course, have added motivation at LIV Golf London. 

In Jeddah last year, Richard Bland revealed he was trying to play better for his brother. “Just tryna give him something to look forward to. Kind of seeing what he has to go through every day is not very nice.” Even before the cancer, Heather Bland was faced with life-threatening health conditions. But as the LIV golfer said, his brother always kept a positive outlook and triumphed.

Richard Bland has witnessed his brother fight and win

It was a normal winter day in Heath Bland’s life. Flu-like symptoms and chest pains in December are not uncommon. So, Bland didn’t do much of it when headed to Southampton Hospital for a checkup. However, his heart stopped for a few seconds, and immediately Bland was transferred to the Royal Brompton Hospital in London. 

It was a virus attack on the lungs, the former PGA Tour pro said at that point. Within a week, Bland was put on life support. The Daily Echo reported that his friends and family organized a fundraiser in his support. Richard Bland was positive that his brother would fight it out, and that’s what he did. 

The elder brother is also a member of the local Dibden and Brockenhurst Manor Clubs. Heath, too, loves golf. They had a trip planned to Augusta later last year, courtesy of a friend who is a member of the ANGC. Richard Bland, at that time, had only one wish: to play again with his brother. He is hoping for the same this time too.