A rugby great says thanks

I wish to acknowledge and thank all those involved with the statue tribute to me in Te Kuiti on June 19. It was a marvellous occasion for the town, my brother Stan and our families.

To Waitomo district mayor Brian Hanna, Legendary Te Kuiti marketing officer Yvette Ronaldson and the committee, thank you for thinking I was worthy of such a tribute – it is humbling.

To Natalie Stamilla, the artist who created the statue, it is an excellent likeness with great detail.

To the community and rugby fans who came to see Stan and I unveil the statue and open the Gallagher Meads Brothers Exhibition, I hope you all enjoyed the day’s festivities.

To the sponsors, those who donated to the statue, and the hardworking ladies who put the exhibition together, my thanks also.

The exhibition brought back many memories for Stan and I of our All Blacks playing days. It is my wish that any profit from this goes back into the local community to help our young people.

Also, since I have been unwell I have received hundreds of cards, emails, texts and phone calls from people wishing me well and offering advice and help. Please know they are wonderful to receive and your best wishes are greatly appreciated. I am fighting to the best of my ability and will keep on doing so.