NRL fans are expressing their heartbreak for Jai Arrow after he revealed on Tuesday that his condition is “progressing” and he can’t run anymore. The NRL world was delighted to hear on Tuesday that Arrow will be allowed to ‘play’ two more games in order to achieve 100 for Souths.
Arrow played 98 games for the Rabbitohs before he was forced to retire earlier this year after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). The NRL has now changed the rules for the Rabbitohs’ final two games of the regular season to allow Arrow to reach 100 for Souths.
Jai Arrow will walk on and off the field after revealing he can’t run anymore. Image: Getty
The 31-year-old will wear the playing kit and lead the Rabbitohs onto the field against the Titans and Roosters, before coming straight off after the kick-off. The Rabbitohs will be given a free interchange in order to sub Arrow off.
But the delight at the news was mixed with some heartbreak after Arrow gave a sad new update on his condition. The former State of Origin player revealed later on Tuesday that he’ll be walking on and off the field because he can’t physically run anymore.
“I am progressing unfortunately and can’t run anymore so I will be walking,” he said. “I can’t control my emotions, so I’m either going to cry my eyes out or laugh my head off.
“I get really stiff when I get embarrassed, so there might be a bit of a limp when I walk off but that’s the disease and I’ll be right. Anything that looks unnatural out there, blame MND. It’s going to be a wild ride, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Jai Arrow with Adam Reynolds of the Broncos and Cody Walker of the Rabbitohs in Round 15. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)
NRL fans shower Jai Arrow with support
MND is a neurological condition that damages the nerves (motor neurons) in the brain and spinal cord. The incurable condition affects a person’s ability to move, walk, speak, swallow and breathe.
“There is genuinely so many emotions, it’s not your usual way to bring a milestone up,” he said. “I pray to god this never happens to anyone else in the future, and I hope this is the first and only time this ever happens in the NRL.”
Fans were heartbroken to learn Arrow can’t run anymore and sent messages of support on social media. One person wrote: “This is heartbreaking. Poor Jai.” Another commented: “So sad.”
