Jai Arrow and Berina Colakovic Shine at Dally M Awards Amidst Health Battle
NRL star Jai Arrow, recently retired due to Motor Neurone Disease, appeared with his wife Berina Colakovic at the Dally M Awards.
NRL star Jai Arrow and his wife Berina Colakovic were a stylish presence at the Dally M Awards held in Sydney on Wednesday evening.
Arrow, who recently announced his retirement from rugby league after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), cut a dapper figure in a black tuxedo. Colakovic was elegant in a strapless feathered gown, completing her look with black heels and a silver handbag. She wore her hair in a sleek updo and sported a flawless makeup palette.
The couple's appearance comes after Arrow revealed in a recent radio interview that a surprising silver lining to his MND diagnosis has been an improvement in his intimate life with his wife.
MND is a progressive neurological condition that affects the nerves controlling muscles, leading to gradual deterioration of movement, speech, swallowing, and breathing. While the disease significantly impacts physical capabilities, experts have noted that sexual sensation and function may remain unaffected. Increased emotional intimacy and a focused connection within a relationship can potentially enhance such experiences.
Arrow, 31, has been actively pursuing various treatment options, including taking HIV medication and utilizing hyperbaric chambers, as part of a holistic approach to manage his condition. He is also adhering to a high-protein, anti-inflammatory diet and focusing on stress management. His determination to slow the disease is fueled by his desire to be present for his young daughter's milestones.
His symptoms first emerged during pre-season training, with difficulties in chin-ups, noticeable changes in his speech, and weakness and twitching in his arm and shoulder. The disease has also affected his emotional state, leading to periods of irritability and uncontrollable laughter during serious moments.
Earlier this month, Arrow's NRL final match featured an emotional tribute, including a lap of honor accompanied by a performance of Gerry and the Pacemakers' 'You’ll Never Walk Alone'.