TV star Coc-Kroft's illness critical

By REBECCA WALSH

Days after she was evacuated from Fiji with a mystery illness, television personality Lana Coc-Kroft remained in a critical condition in Auckland Hospital last night.

Coc-Kroft, one of the presenters of Sportscafe, was in Fiji filming Celebrity Treasure Island when she was struck down with a serious fever.

Her agent, Andy Haden, said yesterday that the mother of two was in a critical but stable condition, drifting in and out of consciousness.

Initial tests had come back negative for dengue fever and typhoid, but more tests were being done and that could change.

"We still have no idea what is wrong with her. It is life-threatening. All these sorts of tropical illnesses are life-threatening."

Mr Haden said Coc-Kroft's family were devastated.

"The uncertainty is the worst thing."

Coc-Kroft became delirious and was unable to finish filming this week. She was flown from Fiji and admitted to Auckland Hospital on Wednesday.

Yesterday, Sportscafe co-presenter Graeme Hill said he only found out after Wednesday night's programme how serious Coc-Kroft's illness was.

"It's awful ... she's a tremendous colleague. It's a family thing while she's like this. As soon as I can give her a pat on the back and say, 'Get well,' I will."

Coc-Kroft has also hosted DIY Dads and co-hosted last year's Test the Nation programme.

People close to her said the illness had shocked and scared everyone. They hoped the fact her condition had not deteriorated was a good sign.