Jonah Lomu

Jonah Tali Lomu (born May 12, 1975) is a New Zealand rugby union footballer who played 73 times (63 test matches) as an All Black after debuting in 1994. Lomu, who is currently attempting a comeback after undergoing a kidney transplant in 2004, is generally regarded as the first superstar of rugby union's professional era.

Health Issues

At the end of 1996 Lomu was diagnosed as having nephrotic syndrome, a rare and serious kidney disorder. His rugby career went on hold whilst the disorder was treated.

Related Topics:
Nephrotic syndrome - Kidney

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In May 2003, the NZRFU announced that Lomu had been put on dialysis three times a week due to deterioration in his kidney function.

Related Topics:
NZRFU - Dialysis

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Side effects of Lomu's dialysis treatment led to severe nerve damage in his feet and legs; his doctors warned him that he faced life in a wheelchair if a kidney transplant was not performed soon.

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Late in March 2004, Lomu was quoted by a Hong Kong newspaper to the effect that a suitable live kidney donor had been found, and that he would have transplant surgery sometime during 2004. However, the former All Blacks team physician who is overseeing Lomu's treatment quickly denied the report. Nonetheless, at the end of July 2004 it was reported that Lomu had indeed undergone a kidney transplant on Tuesday, July 28, in Auckland, New Zealand. The kidney was in fact donated by Wellington radio presenter Grant Kereama. Lomu soon announced his intention to train for his rugby renaissance in June 2005.

Related Topics:
March - 2004 - Hong Kong - All Blacks - July 28 - Auckland - Wellington - Grant Kereama - June 2005

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