South Sydney Rabbitohs have broken their silence on Nathan Merritt’s status, saying they are “happy to hear” he is better. Souths indicated that they did not felt it was right to comment earlier because they wished to respect Merritt and his family.
The 40-year-old was transported to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital on Saturday after being discovered comatose at his auntie’s house. The NRL veteran is thought to have collapsed due to an adverse reaction to prescription pain medication.
“We are so happy to hear directly from his immediate family that Merro’s condition is improving,” the message went on to say. “He is being looked after by the best medical practitioners, and he is in the thoughts of everyone connected to the Rabbitohs.”
“It will be a slow recovery, but he is fighting with all of our support,” it said. “Merro, keep fighting with that South Sydney spirit!” “You’ve always been a Rabbitoh.”
Souths legend’s condition improving
It was initially reported by News Corp on Sunday that Merritt’s organs had been impacted, but on Monday it emerged that his lung capacity had since increased and the internal swelling had decreased. “Nathan is still serious and he’s not out of the woods but there is a slight improvement,” one friend said.
“There are some optimistic signals, which is heartening. “His lung capacity has improved,” they reported. “I hope he gets a little better every day.” It’s a lengthy process.”
Teanne Merritt, Merritt’s sister, took to Facebook on Saturday to express gratitude to the community for the outpouring of love and support. “On behalf of Nathan and our family, we would like to thank everyone for your well wishes and prayers,” she wrote in an email. “Nathan is still in critical condition, but he’s a fighter, and we appreciate everyone’s help during this difficult time.” We will keep you updated as soon as we are able.”
Canterbury Bulldogs’ Josh Addo-Carr and former St George five-eighth and boxing champion Anthony Mundine have visited Nathan Merritt in hospital as the NRL world rallies around the Souths great. Fans and teammates have gone to social media to express their condolences for the popular winger.
Merritt is one of South Sydney’s most popular players of all time, having retired as the club’s most prolific try-scorer from 2002 to 2014, scoring 146 tries in 218 games. He also spent a year with Cronulla before returning to Souths in 2004. His 218 appearances rank fourth all-time with the Rabbitohs.
The NRL great also appeared once for NSW in the 2013 State of Origin series, twice for the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII, and twice for the City Origin team. He has played three times for the NRL Indigenous All Stars.