Rugby community rallies behind former Springbok as he faces major health challenge

Snyman received a vestibular schwannoma â- also known as an acoustic neuroma â- diagnosis in October. That means he has a tumour inside his ear canal which affects his brain and balance.

Understandably, the ramifications of the diagnosis has been taxing on the 50-year-old as he is now unable to drive and there is concern over his movement as his balance is no longer stable.

He will have an operation in mid-January in a bid to remove the tumour.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist Snyman and his family, covering medical as well as the non-medical challenges of his recovery.

"While the recovery time is expected to be three months post-surgery, there are immediate challenges that Andre and his family are navigating â- both medical and non-medical," read a statement on the GoFundMe page.

"To help alleviate the added pressure of this unexpected health crisis that Andre finds himself in, I have created this GoFundMe so that friends, members of the rugby community, colleagues, and those who feel so inclined are able to aid in his immediate time of need and post-surgery recovery."

Snyman made his debut for South Africa against New Zealand in 1996 and he played in 38 Tests for the Springboks, with his last appearance against Scotland in 2006.

He also shone for the Bulls (1995-1999) and Sharks (2000-2003) on the South African domestic scene before having stints with Leeds Tykes in England (2004-2006) and Perpignan in France (2006-2007).

Snyman is currently based in the United States where he has had a successful coaching career. During his time there he was part of professional outfit Glendale Raptors' - now known as Colorado Raptors - coaching staff, and also coached at Hill House School in the United Kingdom.

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