Strawbridge 'stable and improving'

There has been a really positive development for Chiefs assistant coach and Samoan technical advisor Andrew Strawbridge.

Strawbridge remain critical, but now stable and improving.

He remains in Waikato Hospital Intensive Care Unit.

Strawbridge was admitted to an Apia hospital last Tuesday, with an infection in his right eye - after falling ill on a flight from New Zealand, before his condition deteriorated rapidly.

He arrived back in New Zealand in an air ambulance last Friday and was taken to the Waikato Hospital.

The news of his improvement has been met with great joy by the family and friends of Strawbridge and with a deep appreciation for everyone involved in his care.

"This is an ultra-marathon and not a sprint," Strawbridge's wife, Laura Strawbridge, said.

"We know that Andrew will be in hospital for some time to come, but we just don't know how long that will be.

"We are very humbled by the continued support we are receiving and thank the medical staff and everyone for their kindness and support."

The family continues to request privacy as they focus on Andrew's recovery.