George Piggins home from six weeks in hospital in a boost for the Godfather of South Sydney

Rugby league fans were left fearing the worst as George Piggins spent six weeks in hospital. Despite having a “long way to go”, the South Sydney legend has made a major step in his recovery.

South Sydney legend George Piggins at home with his wife, Nolene, after spending weeks in hospital with a severe infection. Picture: Darren Leigh Roberts

This is the photograph that will warm the hearts of all South Sydney supporters.

It shows Rabbitohs godfather George Piggins back at his South Coogee home after spending six weeks in hospital battling a severe infection.

Piggins was taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, in what doctors deemed a serious condition.

But, despite being 75-years-old, Piggins’ famous fight kicked in yet again.

While now back home recuperating, Piggins’ rehabilitation and recovery will be arduous and tough.

And right beside Piggins during his worrying health battle has been long-time, loyal wife, Nolene.

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George Piggins at home with his wife, Nolene. Picture: Darren Leigh Roberts

“George is home, which is wonderful,” Nolene said.

“He still has a long way to go but he is certainly more comfortable at home. Just coming home gave him a real lift.

“George has been so humbled by all the support. Knowing how much people love him, that was such a great comfort to George when he was in hospital.

“He always has been such a fighter.”

And Piggins plans to attend a celebration lunch in early July at an inner-city restaurant where 50-odd guests will toast the 20-year anniversary of South Sydney’s reinstatement to the NRL.

The Rabbitohs were readmitted in 2001 after being exiled in 1999. Souths returned to the NRL playing fields for the start of 2002.

“George will be there,” said long-time close mate, Norm Lipson. “He’s excited to be seeing a lot of his old friends.

George Piggins and Mario Fenech in their heyday at South Sydney.

“His recovery is coming along slowly. There is still a lot of work in front of him but we all know the courage and toughness of George Piggins.

“The support from so many people helped George so much during some difficult times.”

Piggins was spotted having his weekly breakfast with friends at Alexandria on Sunday morning.

Just last month, Rabbitohs legend Craig Coleman revealed just how much Piggins means to Souths.

“Without George, there wouldn’t be a Souths. There have been so many kids who have worn the club’s famous colours because of George Leslie Piggins,” Coleman said.

George Piggins’ fighting spirit is legendary. Picture: Darren Leigh Roberts

“This is when George fights the hardest, when there’s a fight on his hands. We love him. I have known George since I was a little kid. I came from a housing commission and I’d probably still be there without George Piggins.

“I have always had the utmost respect for him. He’s a friend, my coach and a mentor. He was like a father to us Souths boys through the 1980s.”

A 46-0 win over Brisbane on Thursday night has Piggins’ Bunnies setting themselves nicely for a charge at the title in September.

Originally published as George Piggins home from six weeks in hospital in a boost for the Godfather of South Sydney