Well-wishes stream in for Joost

Well-wishes stream in for Joost

As Springbok legend, Joost van der Westhuizen, continues to fight for his life in a Johannesburg hospital - fans have taken to social media to send him their love and prayers. 

Joost
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The 45-year-old South African rugby great was admitted to hospital on Saturday morning - after his heath deteriorated rapidly. 

Van der Westhuizen has been battling motor neuron disease since 2011 - a terminal condition which leads to muscle weakness, and visible physical wasting.

ALSO READ: Joost van der Westhuisen still critical but stable


Following his admission, van der Westhuizen's foundation - the J9 Foundation - posted this update: 


President Jacob Zuma has also sent his wishes to the former rugby star.


In a message issued by the Presidency, Zuma said: “Mr Van der Westhuizen is one of the best rugby players that the country has ever produced. We are saddened by his ill health. We urge the nation to keep him and his family in their thoughts and prayers as he continues to fight this challenging illness."


Meanwhile, social media users have taken to Twitter and Facebook to share their love for the sports hero: 


In his heyday, van der Westhuizen played 89 Tests for the Springboks - between 1993 and 2003. He remains widely regarded as one of the game’s finest-ever scrumhalves.


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