South African director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has recovered from a serious condition, for which he was successfully treated during 2019.
According to a report from writer Hendrik Cronje in Afrikaans publication Rapport, Erasmus was diagnosed with microscopic polyangiitis with granulomatosis early in 2019 and had undergone chemotherapy throughout the year, including during the World Cup.
It’s said Erasmus decided to keep his illness and treatment out of the public domain as he didn’t want the news to serve as a distraction.
‘Rassie was treated for a serious condition in 2019, from which he has recovered,’ an SA Rugby spokesperson confirmed to SARugbymag.co.za on Sunday. ‘He thanks people for their concern but wishes to keep the matter private.’
Meanwhile, Erasmus’ doctor Johan Theron told Rapport the side effects of chemotherapy treatment for the autoimmune disease made the World Cup-winning coach weaker, but that it was needed to keep the illness in remission.
‘Rassie was weak and not himself while he was receiving the treatment. At one stage he really doubted whether he could continue in his position as Springbok coach.’
According to Dr Theron, Erasmus had a rare manifestation of the illness, but because he responded well, his treatment was adjusted around the time of the World Cup to reduce the side effects.
Erasmus’ had his final treatment session in March this year. The Erasmus family are following strict precautionary measures to avoid being exposed to Covid-19.
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