Renowned horse trainer Mathew Ellerton has returned to Australia after suffering a stroke while in Bali. The nine-time Group 1-winning trainer was flown back on Sunday via air ambulance and admitted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Ellerton’s wife, Leah Ellerton, and their son, Jacob, returned to Australia on Saturday night. Unfortunately, both Leah and Jacob are currently battling severe cases of the flu, preventing them from visiting Mathew in the hospital. Despite this, Leah has been reassured by hospital staff that Mathew’s condition is improving, with further updates expected on Monday afternoon.
“He got back safely yesterday on an air ambulance and then was transferred to the Royal Melbourne,” Leah Ellerton stated. “He is doing well, unfortunately I can’t go see him, because our son and I have been struck down with the flu just to top it all off. The hospital has been in touch and everything’s looking good. We should know more today.”
Ellerton’s ordeal began with a severe case of Bali belly, which led to the discovery of a blood clot that caused his stroke. His initial plans to return to Australia on Thursday night were delayed after he developed another blood clot in his brain.
Support for the Ellerton family has been strong, with a GoFundMe campaign organised by Melissa Kennewell to assist with medical expenses raising over $87,000 as of Monday morning.
Meanwhile, the Ellerton training yard continues to operate, narrowly missing a victory at Flemington last Saturday with Brazen Lady.
The racing community and Ellerton’s supporters remain hopeful for his full recovery and eagerly await further updates on his condition.
