Slight setback for Strawbridge
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Chiefs Assistant Coach Andrew Strawbridge’s condition took a small but not unexpected backwards step last night in Hospital.
Strawbridge, who is also the Manu Samoa Technical Advisor, still remains in a critical but stable condition at the Waikato Hospital Intensive Care Unit.
The family realizes that both backwards and forwards steps will feature in this process and remain positive about the overall progress Andrew has made since he first became ill.
"This is an ultra-marathon and not a sprint," Strawbridge's wife, Laura Strawbridge, said.
"We are very humbled by the continued support we are receiving and thank the medical staff and everyone for their kindness and support."
The family continues to request privacy as they focus on Andrew’s recovery.
Meanwhile, the family of Strawbridge want to give back and help raise funds through a give a little page started for the Moto'otua National Hospital Intensive Care Unit where Strawbridge spent the first few days of his life threatening illness.
Despite going through a very difficult and challenging time, the family are already working on plans to help fundraise for specific medical equipment for the Samoan hospital where Strawbridge was first treated by outstanding Middlemore Hospital physician, Dr David Galler and his amazing team.
Laura Strawbridge said: "We know that many of our friends and the rugby community, both here and far away, really want to do something to help.
"The Moto'otua National Hospital Intensive Care Unit could really use some of that love and we hope they will support the give-a-little page.
"We have asked Dr Galler to give us his wish list of resources, because it was obvious during Andrew's stay that some additional resources and support would allow them to deal with the complexities of dealing with critically ill people on the basis of what they need, not on what's available.
"Please help Dr Galler and his 'wonder' ICU team make it much easier to continue their amazing, compassionate work."
The money raised will go towards medical equipment for the Moto'otua ICU including, a computer, syringe pumps, echo machine, airway equipment, ICU dialysis machine, a vital signs transport monitor and a portable oximeter. A full explanation of the list is available on the give-a-little page.
"We would also like to support further investment in training, such as establishing an ongoing educational scholarship open to both doctors and nurses to help establish a sustainable model of appropriate intensive care services for Samoa.
"While our fundraising efforts may not buy all of these things because some of them are very expensive, I would love to think we can make a difference and a dent in the list," said Laura Strawbridge.
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