Critically ill Chiefs coach back in NZ

 

Strawbridge was admitted to Moto'otua National Hospital in Samoa on Tuesday after taking ill during his flight to Samoa with an infection in his right eye which deteriorated rapidly.  He was joining the Manu Samoa campaign for the All Blacks Test and was due to leave with the squad on Monday for the Pacific Nations Cup in the United States and Canada.

 

According to One News, Strawbridge's flight landed in Hamilton after refuelling in Tonga. He was accompanied by an intensive care nurse throughout the journey.

 

It was also confirmed that the Samoan technical advisor was awake and aware of those around him, but couldn't speak. He was being treated with antibiotics.

 

His wife Laura and sister Susan Strawbridge joined him in Samoa when they heard of his condition. The family expressed gratitude for the care and support that has been shown from the medical team at Moto’otua Hospital, the Manu Samoa aiga and the New Zealand rugby community.

 

Laura Strawbridge said: "We are overwhelmed by the support we are continuing to receive in both Samoa and New Zealand.  The kindness shown to us, and the offers of support, has been incredible. We want to thank everyone for their much needed thoughts and kind wishes at this extremely difficult time."