South Sydney legend Nathan Merritt has shared devastating news of his cancer battle, revealing he has been told he has around 12 months to live.
Merritt recently went public with his stage-four oesophageal and liver cancer diagnosis.
The Bunnies are dedicating their match against the Bulldogs to their champion winger, which Merritt told News Corp is likely the last game he'll see live.
"It's probably could be my farewell (game) - that's how you could put it. I don't know how many more football games I will be going to after this one," he told News Corp.
"I really want to soak in the love from Souths' members and fans, it's going to be a great feeling. Seeing all the Souths supporters again, I love being around them.
"It's something I will cherish, a special moment.
"I can't wait to get back out there in the footy environment again. Not many people get to do it so I'm honoured and privileged."
Merritt said he just wants to enjoy the game.
The Indigenous All Star and New South Wales Origin representative ran out for 237 NRL games between 2002 and 2014, all but 19 in Souths' cardinal red and myrtle green, including the club's 2014 grand final win.
He spent a brief stint with the Sharks, and remains second on South Sydney's all-time tryscorers list.
It's heart breaking news for one of the Rabbitohs' favourite sons.
"They are thinking 12 months - I will be lucky to get past 12 months. If chemo works out, it might extend but 12 months is pretty much what their expectations are at the moment," he told News Corp.
Merritt, although feeling "helpless", is trying to stay positive and brave for his kids and appreciate the time he still has with them.
The Rabbitohs are hosting a fundraiser on Friday alongside encouraging fans to turn out for the honorary game.
"He's one of the greats," current Rabbitohs player and Wiradjuri man Jack Wighton said, via NRL.com.
"He's someone I looked up to coming through. I looked up to him when I was playing and he was still running around.
"The club loves him. I got to know him a little bit outside football and he's an absolute champion. It's going to be awesome to see him there, hopefully in good spirits ringing the bell."
