Michael Richardson , 66 , died at James Paget University Hospital in 2013 . The former England rugby union captain was diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus and stomach last year but had been given a clean bill of health by doctors until he collapsed on his way to play for Believed it would have caused 'unnecessary distress ' to keep him alive . Four days after his death , widow Janet found out about DNR notice . She said family had not consented and accused medics of 'playing God '
Michael Richardson , 66 , died at James Paget University Hospital in 2013 . Dr Anna Blackburn put a 'Do Not Resuscitate ' notice on Mr Richardson . Believed it would have caused 'unnecessary distress ' to keep him alive . Four days after his death , widow Janet found out about DNR notice . She said family had not consented and accused medics of 'playing God '