Sir Colin Meads Diagnosed With Pancreatic Cancer

All Black great Sir Colin Meads has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

The legendary lock, who turned 80 in June, was this week diagnosed with the disease after six months of ill-health.

Last month Sir Colin was admitted to Waikato Hospital over concerns with a kidney illness.

Sir Colin said the diagnosis has been "tough" on his family.

"It's bloody hard for Verna, the kids and grandkids.

"The kids are all close to their mum and each other, and we'll come right together.

He paid tribute to the medical staff in his hometown and at Waikato Hospital for their exemplary care.

"The care and help I've had from the doctors and nurses at Te Kuiti Medical Centre and hospital have been wonderful, and we as a family, appreciate it.

"We are very lucky indeed to have such a great facility in our town.
"I was in Waikato Hospital too for a few weeks and everyone up there was the same - they couldn't do enough for me."

Sir Colin said he's been inundated with get-well messages from New Zealand and overseas and thanked everyone for their concern.

"Thanks to all the people from all over the world for the cards and well wishes, but especially to our great friends locally - their support has been immense.

"But for now, it's about me fighting this, and we want to get on with what we are facing privately, as a family."



Today New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Steve Tew offered the support of everyone involved in rugby to Sir Colin and his family at this difficult time.

"Sir Colin remains a true legend of the game and it is with great sadness we hear of the seriousness of his condition. Our thoughts, like so many others in New Zealand and around the rugby world are with him, his wife Verna and his family as he works through the next steps in his treatment.

"We knew Sir Colin had been ill for some time however the latest update on his condition is concerning to us all but we remain hopeful that Sir Colin's strength and determination will help him through."

via NZ Herald