Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin shared heartbreaking news this week, revealing that his fiancée, Carolina Matovac, nearly lost her life over the summer. In a letter released through the team, Dahlin explained that while the two were on vacation in France, they had to go through a severe health crisis.
What Happened to Rasmus Dahlin’s Fiancée?
Matovac’s condition, Dahlin said, started as what seemed like an ordinary illness. Within days, it escalated into a crisis. Medical staff kept her alive with CPR until she was strong enough to undergo surgery.
“Without her receiving lifesaving CPR, the result would have been unimaginable. It is hard to even think about the worst-case scenario,” Dahlin wrote.
She remained in critical care for weeks before receiving a donor heart in France. After the transplant, she was transferred closer to home in Sweden, where her rehabilitation continues.
In a joint letter, Rasmus Dahlin and his fianceé Carolina share that over the summer, Carolina experienced sudden major heart failure while the couple was on vacation in France. She ultimately received a life-saving heart transplant.
Carolina continues to recover in Sweden and… pic.twitter.com/QI3MD70PEn
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) September 19, 2025
Doctors expect her to make a full recovery, though Dahlin admitted the ordeal was the most challenging stretch of their lives.
The news reached fans immediately, and the response online was swift. “Terrifying.. glad to hear she’s recovering ❤️,” one post read.
Terrifying..glad to hear she’s recovering ❤️
— Bella 👽 (@rude_canuck) September 19, 2025
Another simply offered, “Prayers to them. May she have a speedy, and healthy recovery.”
Prayers to them. May she have a speedy, and healthy recovery
— Colby (@C_F_Caines) September 19, 2025
Many added prayer emojis, short but powerful gestures that showed support.
🙏🙏
— Frozen Oil Hockey (@FrozenOilHockey) September 19, 2025
The tweets reflected concern for the couple and admiration for Carolina’s fight through an unimaginable situation.
Dahlin Reflects and Shares His Gratitude
In the letter, Rasmus Dahlin thanked the hospitals that treated Carolina in Antibes, Marseille, and Gothenburg, as well as the rehab staff in Hogsbo, for giving her a chance to survive.
He also mentioned the NHLPA, pointing out the efforts of Dr. Scott Delaney, who reportedly not only coordinated treatment but also stayed close to both families through the chaos. The Sabres organization, from owners Terry and Kim Pegula to GM Kevyn Adams and coach Lindy Ruff, was also singled out for their support.
Dahlin and Matovac also used the moment to highlight bigger issues, like the importance of CPR training, organ donation, and the dedication of healthcare professionals who save lives quietly every day.
Matovac is still in Sweden, working through rehab. Dahlin said she attacks it with the same determination she has always shown. He asked for privacy but acknowledged the wave of love from Buffalo, Sweden, and across the hockey community.
The No. 1 pick of the 2018 draft, Dahlin, entering his eighth season with the Sabres, was named the Sabres’ captain before last season. He delayed his arrival in Buffalo so it was as close to training camp as possible. Buffalo are scheduled to open their season on Oct. 9 against the Rangers.
