Qld league icon Sam Backo suffers heart attack during knee surgeries
Queensland rugby league heavyweight Sam Backo will go back under the knife in Brisbane this weekend after 12 days in an induced coma following a heart attack in March.
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Queensland rugby league legend Sam Backo will undergo potentially lifesaving surgery in Brisbane this weekend after suffering an almost deadly heart attack in March.
Well-known as Slammin’ Sam, the former Queensland Origin prop — one of the most feared players of his generation — suffered the heart attack while undergoing knee surgery at Cairns Base Hospital.
He subsequently spent 12 days in an induced coma and now awaits potentially lifesaving heart surgery in Brisbane this weekend.
His wife, and mother of their eight children, Christabel Warren-Backo, shared the news via a GoFundMe campaign, revealing Backo had to give up his job following the near-death situation.
According to a past teammate, Backo went into Cairns Base Hospital on March 28 for surgery on both his knees, however reportedly suffered a heart attack on the operating table.
Backo, who has 14 grandchildren, was in an induced coma for 12 days.
“Cairns Base Hospital worked tirelessly in stabilising Sam,” Mrs Warren-Backo said.
“Inserting three stints in his heart.
“However this was only a short term solution, as Sam requires a triple bypass.”
Backo is due to have the heart surgery this Saturday, May 20, at Prince Charles Hospital.
“Due to the current situation Sam has had no alternatives but to forgo his current employment after using up all his leave entitlements and has been left unemployed,” Mrs Warren-Backo said.
“The personal care support required also limits my hours of employment.
“Sam’s challenges ahead requires long term medication, attend medical appointments, at least 3-6 months therapy/rehabilitation, recommended physiotherapy equipment, relevant family support if necessary for travel and accommodation.
“Sam is a very proud and independent man, and has never asked for any support before but due to unforeseen circumstances we have this challenge ahead of us.
“We greatly appreciate any support received.”
Mrs Warren-Backo has been contacted for comment.
You can donate to Backo and his family here.
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