Former New Zealand cricketer Chris Cairns has revealed the severity of his health struggles, stating he was "extremely" close to dying following a series of illnesses. After suffering an aortic dissection in August 2021, which required emergency heart surgery and life support, Cairns was left wheelchair-bound due to a spinal stroke. He later underwent treatment for 141 days and was subsequently diagnosed with bowel cancer. Cairns expressed gratitude for regaining his life and the ability to engage socially.