Terrible news for the lad. I hope it doesn't have too much of an effect on his life or his career. Jeez but it's been some pretty dark times for Wakefield recently, stuff like this really puts life (and rugby) into perspective. Hope 2009 gets better for everyone at the club cos stuff like this must be shattering.

rugby players are more approachable than the football stars and you tend to get closer to them, so you do tend to feel their anguish

Best wishes to Richard, hope that he's back fit & well for next season.

best of luck to the lad a very tough prop, hope all goes well and we see him back on the field again

JDs brother Brett has Chrons and it can be a very debilitating condition. There are also alot of side effects from the medication that is used. I cant see him playing again although i hope i am very wrong.

Good Luck Richard.
Con

Get well soon Richard. Don't worry about rugby, just get yourself better and see where it takes you. All the best.

Totaly agree, stuff the rugby Big lad

It can be a debilitating illness, but if they get him on the right combination of meds, theres no reason he cant play again

It was sad to see Richie lose his way after his spell in the capital, and I was pleased to see him recover his form with Wakey.

On behalf of all ex-Broncos, get well soon lad.

Real shame for the lad as he has come on leaps and bounds over the last 2 years. Hope this can be controlled and he can return to the field but more importantly enjoy good health.

Tough uncompromising player who plays with his heart on his sleeve always a player i have liked and admired, all the best to you and your family Rich

Get well and can't wait to see you back playing for the Wildcats

Really tough season on the club and so wishing you, players, coaches,and fans all the sucess you can have for the forthcoming season if any clunb deserves a change of luck it's the Wildcats

All the best from all hull fc's fans

All the best Richie, must have been a nightmare waiting for the diagnosis as all sorts will have been going through your head. At least now you have a diagnosis you can move forward and start to build up your strength through diet and medication. I am reliably told that Steve Redgrave has the disease and he won 5 golds.