ACT Brumbies skipper Christian Lealiifano says he has been touched by the support from the world of rugby, thanking the players after winning the Rugby Union Players Association medal for excellence.
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Lealiifano sent a video message to a packed RUPA awards ceremony on Wednesday after becoming the seventh Brumby to win the prestigious prize.
Lealiifano is in Melbourne being monitored by doctors after having a bone-marrow transplant to continue his treatment for leukaemia.
He will remain in Melbourne for at least the next two months as he continues his road to recovery following a shock diagnosis in August.
"I'm truly, truly humbled and honoured to receive such an award," Lealiifano said.
"Congratulations to all of the other nominees; I feel like this is probably an award for all of us, and the great work we do in the community to grow the game around the country."
"I want to thank everybody for all of their support through this journey this little man [son Jeremih] and I are on at the moment.
"It definitely means a lot and we're all so grateful for your thoughts and prayers."
Lealiifano missed just five minutes of the Brumbies Super Rugby campaign this year, leading the team into the finals for a third consecutive season.
However, it's unlikely he will be able to play next season and he is instead set to take on a coaching role as he continues his recovery.
RUPA AWARD WINNERS
RUPA Medal For Excellence: Christian Leali'ifano (ACT Brumbies)
Newcomer of the Year: Reece Hodge (Melbourne Rebels)
People's Choice Wallaby of the Year: Michael Hooper (NSW Waratahs)
Men's Rugby Sevens Players' Player of the Year: Lewis Holland
Women's Rugby Sevens Players' Player of the Year: Charlotte Caslick
Academic Achievement Award: Alicia Quirk (Australian Women's Rugby Sevens)
Community Service Award: Matt Hodgson (Western Force)
NRC Players' Player of the Year: Jake Gordon (NSW Country Eagles)
