The renowned Indigenous rugby league club, the Redfern All Blacks, has publicly condemned distressing false claims that South Sydney Rabbitohs legend Nathan Merritt has passed away. Merritt, who is courageously fighting two types of stage-four cancer, and his extensive family have been left shattered by the spread of this incorrect and harmful information.
Club Issues Urgent Plea for Respect and Privacy
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the Redfern All Blacks football club addressed the footy community directly, stating that the reports are completely false and have caused deep distress to Merritt's loved ones. The club emphasised the importance of verifying information before sharing it online.
'We kindly ask that everyone refrain from sharing unverified information and respect the privacy of Nathan and his loved ones during this time,' the All Blacks declared. 'Spreading incorrect news can cause unnecessary harm and confusion.'
Merritt's Brave Public Battle with Cancer
Last month, The Daily Mail exclusively revealed the details of Merritt's devastating dual diagnosis. The 42-year-old father-of-five spoke bravely about his prognosis, confirming he has been diagnosed with stage-four oesophagus and liver cancer.
'It's a bit of tough news to swallow, but I've just got to keep fighting 'til the end,' Merritt stated from near his Sydney home. 'It's a tough pill to swallow for my kids and family. But it's good - it's going to be a tough one, but I'm going to fight through it.'
The rugby league community has since rallied around the Bunnies great, with a GoFundMe page established to support him and his family throughout his treatment journey.
A Poignant Tribute at the Football
Merritt was recently honoured by South Sydney Rabbitohs in what could potentially be one of the final NRL matches he ever attends. The 237-game veteran had the privilege of ringing the legacy bell before his side's victory over the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs on Good Friday at Accor Stadium.
This poignant moment came just days after Merritt received the heartbreaking news that he has less than twelve months to live. 'I will be lucky to get past 12 months,' Merritt confided to News Corp.
'It feels like your soul has been taken away,' the 42-year-old added emotionally. 'There are nights when I have my little breakdowns and think about my kids. I think about all the things I'm going to miss out on and the things they're going to miss out on. I don't know how many more football games I will be going to after this one.'
Nathan Merritt enjoyed a long and glittering career in the NRL, becoming a cult hero for South Sydney Rabbitohs fans. His recent public appearance at the Good Friday clash saw him reunite with former teammates including Luke Burgess, Dean Widders, and Scott Geddes, highlighting the strong bonds within the rugby league fraternity.
