Tom Prebble issues update on on spinal injury

Apprentice jockey Tom Prebble has issued his own statement one week after his serious fall at Warrnambool, sharing an update on his condition and expressing gratitude to those who have supported him.

Prebble revealed he currently has no feeling or movement from the ribcage down, but stressed he remains optimistic despite the uncertainty around his long-term recovery.

“On Monday afternoon I was transferred from The Alfred Hospital ICU over to the ICU at the Austin Hospital. To begin, I want to express my thanks to the surgeons, all ICU doctors and nurses and everyone at The Alfred who looked after me. I’ve been made aware of their incredible care, concern and support while I was there and I’m forever grateful.

“At some stage today, all being well, I hope to move from the Austin’s ICU into the spinal care ward. I’m told it’s likely I’ll stay there for the next few weeks before hopefully being able to move to a rehabilitation facility where I can start months of work.

“I know there’s been a mountain of concern and care about where I’m at and I’m very appreciative of that. I’m happy to make it as clear as I can where things have landed one week in.

“My key injury is to my spinal cord. At the moment I’ve got nothing happening from the bottom of my rib cage down through my body… currently no feeling or movement.

“My doctors say it’s now a waiting game over the coming weeks and months to see where things land. The message is very clear: to remain fully optimistic re improvement but also be realistic and that there are a full range of possible outcomes from this injury.

“So, to the question we all want an answer to: What about my long-term recovery of feeling, movement and mobility? The answer is at this time no one actually knows where things will land.

“My other injuries are a fracture to my spine at T5 that required surgery to stabilise it, a facture to my neck that did not need surgery but will require a neck brace for maybe three months, some rib fractures and minor lung related issues which will heal quickly, and some damage to my teeth.

“I hope how I’ve explained it is clear and puts everyone in the picture. From here on, I’m happy to provide updates as my situation changes, but that’s where I’m at today.

“Lastly, I’m blessed to have two of the best parents and sister anyone could wish for and they’ve got me through this first week. I’m so grateful to them for their love and support.

“That thanks goes out to everyone who has expressed their best wishes and concerns for me. It means the world to know so many people are behind me in my recovery and I know it will be a big help to me during the tough times in the weeks and months ahead.’’