Cat Coore 'alert, stable'; thanks well-wishers

The management team of Stephen 'Cat' Coore, in giving an update on the health of the beloved musician and co-founder of the Reggae Ambassadors, Third World, noted that he is "alert, stable and receiving attentive care by the dedicated medical team at the University Hospital [of the West Indies]".

"The family of Stephen 'Cat' Coore and Third World would like to take this opportunity to provide an update to his beloved fans and friends while providing an accurate account of the events surrounding Cat’s hospitalisation. On November 29, 2022 Cat was admitted to the University of the West Indies hospital in Kingston, Jamaica, to repair an idiopathic tear in his lower oesophagus. The following day, a specialised surgical team successfully conducted that surgery. Due to the nature and location of the surgery, Cat has been fed and hydrated intravenously. This standard protocol helps to rest the oesophagus, speed healing and was expected to last at least 10 days," a release signed by Third World's manager, Heather Cameron, explained.

It further added that, "As early as the day following his surgery, Cat was recovering in the TTW of the University hospital. He received visits from family, band members and close friends. His spirits were good and he enjoyed playing his guitar and watching the World Cup to help pass the time while healing. 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."

The management team shared that on December 12, "Cat seemed to be developing some cold-like respiratory symptoms. He was moved to ICU where he could better be treated for a compromised lung condition that resulted from seepage of the surgical area into his chest cavity. As of today, December 17, 2022, Cat is alert, stable and receiving attentive care by the dedicated medical team at the University hospital. This untimely condition is not expected to significantly hamper Cat’s healing from the initial surgery or impede his full recovery.

"We want to thank all the well-wishers here in Jamaica, throughout the diaspora and abroad. The concern and compassion you have shown is overwhelming and so gratefully received. Cat Coore has performed in every appearance throughout the band's distinguished history, please join us in wishing him a speedy recovery during the holiday season so that he can extend this impressive record. Touring plans are continuing to be scheduled as Third World gears up for its golden 50th anniversary in August 2023."

The management asked persons to "be mindful" when sharing unverified information from social media platforms and promised to "continue to provide medically accurate and timely news releases as circumstances warrant".

In closing, the release stated, "As Cat, aka Johnny Tiger, would say, 'You know I love you, right'!"