Cody Ramsey Makes Heartfelt Comeback for Dragons After 896 Days Away

St George Illawarra Dragons fullback Cody Ramsey has shared his heartfelt emotions surrounding his return to the field after an astonishing 896 days away due to illness.

The 25-year-old had been sidelined for nearly two years battling ulcerative colitis, which saw him hospitalised for seven months and cause him to lose 28kg, with medical professionals warning that his career might be over.

Yet, in a moment that captured the hearts of many, Ramsey made his comeback by featuring in St George Illawarra’s reserve grade team over the weekend, successfully playing for half an hour before celebrating with family and friends.

“We f—ing made history,” he exclaimed as he exited the field.

“I aimed for 20 minutes of play, but I pushed to keep going, and I’m grateful they let me stay on for another 10 minutes.”

“No one really knew how I’d fare. I felt well-prepared, having trained with the NRL squad throughout the pre-season. It was just my footy fitness that I needed to enhance.”

“Every single day in hospital, I dreamed of being back on that field, and today that dream became a reality. It was truly an emotional experience, but I believe I’m adequately prepared.”

“I wouldn’t have taken the field if I didn’t feel I was in the right place.”

Ramsey began training with the Dragons again in May last year, though uncertainties loomed over his playing future.

While it seems that a return to the first-grade squad is still some time away, Ramsey has secured a contract with the club until the end of the 2025 season, signing a top 30 deal.

“I just want to have a solid year, without any setbacks,” he expressed.

“I plan to keep playing and let everything else fall into place. I’ll be giving it my all, hoping to keep the momentum going, and then we’ll see what lies ahead.”

The Dragons’ first-grade side achieved a commendable 26-8 victory on Sunday evening against the Roosters.