Rachel Weatherly has waited nearly two years for the moment she could pull her football boots back on.

After a long battle with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and a major operation in Australia, the Whakatāne footballer has finally returned to the sport she loves, albeit in limited minutes as she continues her recovery.

For Weatherly, simply being back on the pitch with Whakatāne AFC over the past month has been a victory.

Diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome after a lengthy search for answers, the condition led to several serious complications that ultimately forced her away from football.

While she is now on the road back, her recovery remains a gradual process.

“Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can be challenging to manage, especially because it has led to several other medical conditions that I’m still dealing with,” Weatherly said.

“Some of those conditions can be treated, while others are lifelong.

“My surgery last year in Australia for abdominal vascular compressions was a huge success. It’s the reason I’m now able to get back on the football field.”

The surgery was possible thanks to widespread fundraising support from the Eastern Bay community, something Weatherly said she would never forget.

“I can’t thank the community enough for helping us raise the funds to make that surgery possible. It simply wouldn’t have happened without their support.”

She is now hoping to undergo surgery for another condition, gastroptosis, which she believes could eliminate the need for a feeding tube.

“The next condition I’m hoping to address is gastroptosis, which is responsible for my remaining stomach issues. It’s looking promising that after surgery I’ll no longer need a feeding tube.”

Although there is still plenty of work ahead physically, Weatherly said the emotional lift of returning to football had made every challenge worthwhile.

“It’s an amazing feeling to be back in the team instead of watching from the sidelines. Being out on the field feels like a second home, and getting back to this point is something I’ve worked incredibly hard to achieve.”

Her appearances have been limited as she carefully manages fatigue and continues to rebuild her fitness.

“Fitness and fatigue-wise, I still have a long way to go, especially while managing several health conditions. Building up my fitness and increasing my minutes on the field will take time, but I’m hopeful I’ll get there.”

Despite the lengthy layoff, Weatherly believes her football instincts have remained intact.

“It has been nearly two years since I last played, but I don’t think time away from football takes away everything you’ve learned over the years. It’s a bit like muscle memory.

“I’m definitely a little rusty, but that’s something that will come back with more time on the ball and training.”

After spending long periods confined to bed during her illness, she expected her stamina would take time to return.

“I get out of breath more easily than I used to, but after spending so much time confined to bed, that’s something I expected. It’s all about gradually rebuilding my stamina while making sure I don’t overdo it.”

For now, her focus is simply on staying healthy and making herself available whenever possible.

“Right now, my goal is simply to keep playing whenever my health allows and to stay as consistent as I can.

“As my health improves and I’m able to play more regularly, I’d love to challenge myself by moving up a league and playing at a higher level.”

Returning to Whakatāne AFC has made the journey even more meaningful.

Weatherly first joined the club’s women’s side nine years ago while she was in year 10 at Whakatāne High School, and she says the club has remained like family throughout her health battle.

“Coming back to Whakatāne AFC has been really special.

“This club has always felt like home, and last year they went above and beyond by helping raise funds for my surgery. I’ll always be grateful for that support.”

Getting back into playing the game she loved became the goal that carried her through some of her darkest days.

“Getting back onto the football field has always been one of my biggest goals.

“Throughout my health journey, it was something that kept me motivated to keep fighting through the tough days. The thought of one day pulling on my boots again was always the light at the end of the tunnel.”

Although she has managed only a handful of cameo appearances so far, Weatherly is already looking ahead.

“Football has been amazing. At the moment, my focus is on getting to training more consistently and gradually increasing my game time. It can be tough on my body, but for me, it’s absolutely worth it because I’m back doing what I love.”

Having taken the first steps on her return, Weatherly hopes more minutes this season will lay the foundation for an even bigger role next year.