It has recently been reported that an Oscar winner has been transported to hospital for surgery just hours after being recognized for their work.
Eric Saindon was credited with his first Oscar at Sunday night's event at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles thanks to his incredible work on Avatar: The Way of Water.
Along with Joe Letteri, Richard Baneham, and Daniel Barrett, the 58-year-old took home the award for Best Visual Effects after serving as a senior visual effects supervisor on the blockbuster sequel directed by James Cameron.
However, within hours of picking up the victory, Saindon was rushed to a nearby medical facility where he underwent surgery after rupturing his small intestine.
According to News Center Maine, the Oscar winner's mother, Lila Saindon, told the news outlet that her son had been dealing with immense pains throughout the day which eventually became unbearable.
Earlier on in the day, it was also reported that the visual effects supervisor might have been dealing with appendicitis, and then kidney stones but was only "treated for the pain" because of his determination to be at the prestigious event in Hollywood.
IndyWire later reported that Saindon tested negative for both illnesses so put on his tux at the hospital before heading over.
A representative for Weta FX later confirmed to Entertainment Weekly that the 58-year-old was "doing okay."
"He’s doing okay and recovering as we speak. I’m just glad he left when he did. A rupture is serious stuff."
On Twitter, kind messages of support poured in for the Avatar star.
Reporter Jeff Sneider tweeted: "After the ceremony last night, Oscar winner Eric Saindon, who’s on Avatar’s VFX team, was taken to the hospital where he stayed overnight after complaining of kidney pain. We at @Below_The_Line hope he’s feeling better this morning, and we wish him a swift recovery."
"Sending up prayers for Eric Saindon & hoping he has a quick recovery," artist Liz Hume added.
Avatar: The Way of Water, received a total of four nominations at this year's Acadamy Awards but only managed to clinch one of the victories thanks to Saindon and the rest of his team.
We wish him a speedy recovery!
