‘Slammin’ Sam Backo

I am Chrissy Warren-Backo wife of Sam Backo. Between Sam and I we have 8 children and 14 grandchildren. Sam is well known for his Rugby League career playing for the Canberra Raiders and Brisbane Broncos also representing Queensland and Australia. On the 28th of March 2023 Sam was admitted to Cairns Base Hospital to undergo surgery on both of his knees. Three days later whilst recovering in hospital Sam suffered a massive heart attack which sent him into an induced coma for 12 days. Cairns Base Hospital worked tirelessly in stabilising Sam inserting 3 stints in his heart. However this was only a short term solution, as Sam requires a triple bypass, which is scheduled for Saturday the 20th of May 2023 at the Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane. 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. 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.