Lomu Gets Transplant

Media Statement 29th July 2004

LOMU GETS TRANSPLANT

At 12.00 midday on Tuesday 27 July, Jonah Lomu underwent a live donor kidney transplant at Auckland City Hospital, after ten years of dealing with a debilitating kidney disorder.

The operation is said to have gone well.

"It is too early to comment on the success of the transplant" said Lomu's GP, John Mayhew.

"Surgeons confirm that the operation went according to plan and Jonah is in a stable condition.

"We do not expect to be in position to comment on the success of the transplant for at least three months, at which time we will have a better picture of how Jonah's new kidney is functioning."

The donor, whose wishes to remain unidentified, is said to be resting and in good spirits.

"Typically donors are not identified in transplant situations. We respect this and will do all we can to ensure the donor's privacy", said Mayhew today.

There will be no media interviews while Jonah recuperates. Regular updates will be provided to the media over this time.

It is Jonah's hope that the New Zealand public will respect his need to recuperate quietly and out of the public eye.

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