Rugby Union Enthusiast Faces Uncertain Future After Devastating Nerve Damage
A much-loved clubman from the Norths Rugby Club in Brisbane, Jordan Luke, is facing an uphill battle after sustaining major damage to the nerve system controlling his right shoulder and arm function. The incident occurred during a recent match against the University of Queensland on June 15.
Luke, a winger for the Norths Eagles, was involved in a driving tackle that left him with a lifelong disability. Nearly four weeks later, the player still cannot lift his right wrist or roll his hand, and he has been informed that he may never regain full functionality.
“Time will tell how much movement I get back as some of the nerves repair. It’s a waiting game,” Luke shared with Rugby Xplorer. “I’ve replayed the moment 1,000 times … I’ve done the same thing 100 times going into a tackle like that with some momentum to try to get the ball back. I can’t explain why it turned out differently this time.”
The rugby union community has rallied behind Luke, with a GoFundMe page created to assist with his medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost income over the past few weeks. The page has already raised over $22,000, with a goal of $40,000.
Norths coach Dan Ritchie expressed the team’s heartbreak over Luke’s situation, but emphasized the player’s resilience:
“Jordan is a special member of the Norths community. I made him captain at the start of the season. You talk about club loyalty and that’s Jordan. He understands he’s in for a fight, but Norths will be with him.”
The Norths Eagles are also organizing a “Fill the Hill for Jordan” fundraising day this weekend when they face the Wests Bulldogs. Proceeds from beer and food sales, as well as game day raffles, will be donated to support Luke’s recovery.
Luke expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support, stating, “I’m very grateful for the level of support following news of my injury.”
As the rugby union community rallies behind Jordan Luke, his journey to regain functionality and overcome this setback will undoubtedly be closely followed by enthusiasts across the sport.
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