Heather Cameron, the manager of legendary Jamaican reggae band Third World, has provided what she described as “an accurate account of the events surrounding” the hospitalization of Third World member Cat Coore.
Cameron said on 17 December that Coore was admitted on 29 November 2022 to the University of the West Indies Hospital in Kingston, Jamaica “to repair an idiopathic tear in the lower oesophagus”.
“The following day, a specialist surgical team performed this surgery successfully,” Cameron said. “Due to the nature and location of the surgery, the cat has been fed and hydrated intravenously. This standard protocol helps to rest the esophagus, speeds healing and was expected to last at least 10 days.
“As early as the day after her surgery, Cat was recovering in the TTW at University Hospital,” he added. “He received visits from family members, band members and close friends. His spirits were good, and he enjoyed playing guitar and watching the World Cup to help pass the time while he healed. He also took the time to speak to IRIE FM to let his fans know he was recovering well and appreciated the outpouring of love and support he received.”
On December 12, 2022, Cameron said: “The cat appeared to be developing some cold-like respiratory symptoms.”
He said he was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), “where he could be better treated for compromised lung disease that resulted from leakage from the surgical area into the chest cavity.
“As of today, December 17, 2022, Cat is alert, stable and receiving close attention from the dedicated medical team at University Hospital,” the manager said. “This untimely condition is not expected to significantly impede the cat’s healing from the initial surgery or prevent its full recovery.
“We want to thank all the supporters here in Jamaica, throughout the diaspora and abroad,” he added. “The concern and compassion you have shown is overwhelming and gratefully received. Cat Coore has performed at every appearance throughout the bands distinguished history, please join us in wishing her a speedy recovery during the holiday season so that he can extend this impressive record.
Cameron said tour plans continue to be scheduled as the Third World prepares for its Golden 50th Anniversary in August 2023.
“Please be careful when sharing unverified information you receive on social media platforms,” he warned. “We will continue to provide medically accurate and timely press releases as circumstances warrant.
“As Cat, aka Johnny Tiger, would say, ‘You know I love you, right,'” Cameron added.
