Springboks World Cup Winner Joost van der Westhuizen discharged from hospital – Rugby news
Former Springboks captain and author of “Spieëlbeeld”, Joost van der Westhuizen, has been discharged from the hospital. On May 13, Van Der Westhuizen’s close friend, Dr. Kelbrick, noticed that Joost was having problems with his right arm that later was diagnosed
as serious motor-neuron muscle disease.
Following the initial diagnosis, Van der Westhuizen consulted two renowned neurologists who have termed the symptoms as serious. The disease was termed as life threatening and further tests were required to find the exact nature of the disease. Joost remained
under the treatment and watch of neuron specialist Dr. Jody Pearl.
Earlier today, Dr. Pearl released a statement containing updates regarding Joost’s condition, medications, tests and future course of action. Earlier Van der Westhuizen’s publicist, Bridget van Oerle, avoided providing the details of the neuron specialist
following Joost’s case
In her statement, she confirmed that former Springbok scrum half Joost van der Westhuizen is under her observation and that she has conducted multiple investigations. Dr. Pearl further confirmed that Joost is confident and will fight the disease. She said,
“I am pleased to report that he is stable and in good spirits, and is approaching this health challenge with similar courage to that which he displayed on the rugby pitch.”
Commenting on the nature of the disease, she said, “Motor neuron disease and similar neurological disorders require careful consideration, and at times a trial of therapy, before a final diagnosis is made.”
She acknowledge that the tests did not result in the final diagnosis and further tests will be conducted to actually assess the nature of the disease and the challenge it posses. Dr. Pearl said, “We are doing everything within our power, based on global
best practice, to rapidly establish Joost's diagnosis, and to offer him the best possible therapy." Dr. Pearl further added that while Joost is discharged from the hospital, his condition is still being regularly assessed and trial of therapy has been prescribed.
Joost retired after the 2003 rugby World Cup and was previously hospitalized in June 2009 with a suspected heart attack but a detailed diagnosis overruled the suspicion.
Pretoria born Van der Westhuizen is an iconic South African Rugby Union player and one of the legendary scrumhalves the country has ever produced. Besides being part of the Springboks unit that lifted 1995 rugby world cup, he has also led Springboks to
the semifinals of the 1999 Rugby World Cup.
40-year-old has made 89 appearances for the Springboks and hold the record for the most appearances when he retired in 2003.
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