Weepu determined to bounce back
All Black scrumhalf Piri Weepu will return to action for the Blues against the Waratahs next weekend after recently recovering from a minor stroke.
The experienced halfback has resumed training with the Blues, and although he will miss this weekend's clash with the Hurricanes he is expected to be back to full fitness next week.
Weepu had a small hole in his heart which has since been repaired surgically and played through three games for the Blues whilst experiencing speech problems, dizziness and headaches before the problem was diagnosed.
He admitted that it had come as a major shock when he got the news, but added that he never doubted whether he would return to the pitch.
He told Fairfax NZ News: "When I first found out it actually happened I had a few tears because it's something you don't really expect. After having my little cry I rang the old lady to let her know, and it only took her about two minutes to start giving me a bit of grief.
"After that I got on with it and tried to do everything possible to make myself feel better."
The 30-year-old World Cup-winner said that the experience has made him more determined than ever to make the most of his opportunities.
"I'd never had anything like that happen before," he said.
"I was scared it might have been something worse than just concussion, so I guess finding out three weeks later and knowing the outcome was a bit scary.
"I talked to [the doctor] about it, and went down the right path and made sure everything was done the right way.
"The biggest thing I'm worried about now is making the most of my opportunities in life, and if that means giving up something I'm passionate about, then so be it," he added.
Blues coach John Kirwan said that Weepu's swift recovery has been incredible.
"He's really keen to get back into it. He's seeing one of the best in the world, and his specialist has said he could get back to training this week and can be available from next week. It's incredible really."
