Newcastle NRL forward Alex McKinnon has revealed he is getting more movement in his arms and has feeling in his legs four weeks after suffering his severe spinal injury in a tackle.
McKinnon on Friday provided a personal update on his progress in a video message on the Knights' website.
"It's been a pretty tough month but there are a lot of improvements that are keeping me going," he said.
He spoke of the support from his fiancee and family and the improvements they had seen in his progress.
"It was only last night I was saying I wish I could do something, I wish I was better. She said, you are better compared to two weeks ago," he recalled.
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"I've obviously come a long way... in the four weeks."
"I've got a lot of movement in my right arm and a lot of movement in my left arm, so it's just a matter of time before I get some movement in my legs."
"I've got a great sensation of feeling in my legs and it's a lot of positive signs," he said.
The young NRL player is in a Sydney rehabilitation centre where it's believed he'll stay for two months.
Mckinnon suffered a serious spinal injury during a clash with Melbourne, four weeks ago, when he landed on his neck following a lifting tackle by Storm prop Jordan McLean.
McLean was suspended for seven matches following the incident at AAMI Park and the NRL has announced a crackdown on players who used lifting tackles to put opponents in a dangerous position.
Three weeks ago, McKinnon vowed he would walk down the aisle, after proposing to long-time girlfriend Teigan Power.
"This girl is my soldier, I am truly overwhelmed with the support and wishes from everybody in the rugby league society and the community at large. Your ongoing support will never be forgotten.
"PS. When life throws you struggles respond with a smile. So happy to announce Teigan and my engagement.#throughthickandthin #iwillwalkherdowntheisle" he wrote.
