Chris Cairns shares exciting update he's been discharged from hospital after 141 days

Former Black Cap Chris Cairns has taken to social media to share he's finally going home!

The 51-year-old collapsed after suffering a massive heart attack in Canberra in August last year - resulting in an aortic dissection, which is when a tear occurs in the inner layer of the body's main artery.

He was then rushed to a specialist hospital in Sydney for emergency life-saving heart surgery, during which he suffered a stroke in his spine, resulting in paralysis in both his legs.

But now the cricket legend has been discharged from hospital after 141 days.

Writing on social media, he said: "A bittersweet farewell. After 141 days as an inpatient at UniCanberra Hospital, I am finally heading home for good.

"Thank you again to the incredible staff. The next phase starts Monday as an outpatient at Brindabella. I look forward to working with the team."

Cairns accompanied the post with images of him standing beside a wheelchair outside the hospital entrance as well a touching moment with his son.

In January, Cairns revealed he had begun to take steps again, with the aide of a walking frame and his physical therapy team - despite being told he may never walk again.

His rehab routine involves five hours of work in a gym, six days per week, as he attempts to strengthen muscles that have been effectively separated from his control for months now.

Cairns, the son of Black Cap legend Lance Cairns, was a right-hand batsman and fast-medium bowler. He is known as one of the finest all-rounders of his generation.

Cairns played 62 test matches, 215 one day internationals and two T20s for New Zealand between 1989 and 2006. He went on to become a commentator with Sky Sport.

Cairns has been living and working in Canberra with his wife Mel and their children for several years.