Speaking to media in the build-up to Wednesday’s State of Origin opener in Sydney, Nathan Cleary said Death’s condition was improving.
“With those types of things, it can be pretty scary, and setbacks happen so quickly.
“My thoughts are obviously with him, and the whole family is getting behind him. He’s had lots of visitors in hospital.
Jason Death played 55 times for the Warriors. Photo / Photosport
“He’s a very likeable man, and that’s been evident with the number of people that have visited him. I’ve got plenty of love for him and, thankfully, he’s on the improve. But there is still a long way to go.”
Death also played for the Canberra Raiders, North Queensland Cowboys and South Sydney Rabbitohs.
A GoFundMe page was set up and has raised $93,000, including donations from many former players who played with or against Death.
Awen Guttenbeil, a teammate of Death’s at the Warriors, has donated $1000, while Sir Peter Leitch, also known as The Mad Butcher, has given $5000. The Canberra Raiders have also contributed through their foundation.
Cleary said his mother was holding up well, considering the circumstances.
“She’s all right. She’s a trooper. She is always the one that’s the rock of the family and keeping everyone sane. She’s good and happy at the moment.”
Since retiring, Death has been running a gym, north of Sydney. He has four children.
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.