Cory Heather, 33, died few hours after he suffered a severe brain injury in a head knock sustained during a game of rugby in New Zealand.

How it Happened

The father of three was playing for the Beachlands Maraetai Club in Auckland on Saturday when he reportedly took a knee to the head that left him unconscious.

It was a sad day as he suffered the devastating accident before his family – Heather’s mother Donna, partner Rachel Hurcombe and their three young children were watching the game. 

A rescue chopper was immediately arrived at the scene at Te Puru Park and he was flown to Auckland City Hospital in critical condition.

Life Support – OFF

As their luck ran out, his family agreed to turn off his life support on Sunday.

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A fundraising page was set up to help the shattered family and it had raised more than $36,000 at the time of writing. 

‘Surrounded by his family and friends, Cory sadly passed away on Sunday morning,’ a message on the page read.

‘A much-loved partner to Rachel, hands on father to his three children Stevie (5), Benji (4) and Louie (1), and a cherished friend to so many.

‘A bright spark who lead an exceptional life and will be so dearly missed.

‘We love you forever, fly high Cory.’