‘No one knows the struggles they go through’: Norm Maxwell’s wife details ex-All Black’s concussion battle

Former All Black Norm Maxwell’s wife has opened up about his post-career health issues by backing calls urging New Zealand Rugby to do more to help players deal with the effects of concussion.

Maxwell was a tough block for Northland, Canterbury, the Crusaders and the All Blacks, playing 36 Tests between 1999-2004.

But, as his wife Jesica Buezas revealed, playing all that rugby at the elite level has taken a heavy toll on his body.

Buezas shared a Things Facebook post about Irene Gottlieb-Old, the wife of former All Black Geoff Old who wants NZR to establish a “special fund” to help those players suffering from cognitive problems that they believe are a direct consequence of their time in the sport.

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Buezas praised Gottlieb-Old for raising the issue by detailing the issues Maxwell faces.

“As a partner of a former All Black, I have seen what it is like to live in pain EVERY DAY,” Buezas wrote.

“I’ve seen what it is [sic] he likes to be sensitive to artificial light, have a migraine for days if he does not protect himself with sunglasses and a hat. I have seen the fight.

“I have seen my young son have to watch out for his dad’s pain when they play. Have to be careful with your neck.

“I’ve seen how they charged him $ 450 for an X-ray because those injuries were a long time ago.

“I think it’s time to act and make a difference and protect the players. Those players give their all on the field every game and feel the pressure of having to win every time because the jersey is too heavy. And when they finished their careers nobody knows the struggles they go through.

“I hope this is the beginning of a conversation that is much needed. Good for this woman for talking about it. We love you baby and we see you.”

Earlier this week, it was revealed that eight former players planned to sue rugby union authorities for negligence, claiming the sport had left them with permanent brain damage.

Former England hooker Steve Thompson, part of the triumphant 2003 World Cup team, is among the group and said he cannot remember a single game from that tournament.

All eight of the group have recently been diagnosed with the first signs of dementia. They blame repeated blows to the head and are believed to be seeking millions of pounds in damages.