Apprentice jockey Tom Prebble has shared a poignant update on his health from his hospital bed, following a severe accident at Warrnambool that led to major spinal surgery. The 23-year-old, son of renowned Melbourne Cup winner Brett Prebble, revealed that he currently has no sensation or movement from his ribs down.
The young jockey’s ordeal began last week when a fall during a race at Warrnambool resulted in critical injuries. His parents, Brett and Maree Prebble, initially communicated on his behalf, expressing gratitude to the medical teams and the racing community for their unwavering support.
Now, directly addressing his supporters, Prebble has been transferred from The Alfred Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit to the Austin Hospital, where he is set to embark on a multi-week stay in the spinal care ward.
Details of the Injury and Immediate Care
Prebble’s injuries are extensive, with the most significant being to his spinal cord. In a candid message, he explained,
“At the moment I’ve got nothing happening from the bottom of my rib cage down through my body… currently no feeling or movement.”
Doctors have informed him that the coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the extent of his recovery.
Besides the spinal injury, Prebble sustained a fracture to his spine at T5, which required surgical stabilization, and a neck fracture that will necessitate wearing a neck brace for approximately three months. He also suffered rib fractures, minor lung-related issues, and dental damage.
Community Support and Family Strength
The racing community has rallied around Prebble, offering support and well-wishes. His family has been a pillar of strength throughout this challenging time. Prebble expressed deep gratitude, stating,
“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.”
The Prebble family, part of the illustrious Payne racing lineage, is no stranger to the highs and lows of the sport. This incident underscores the inherent risks jockeys face every time they mount a horse.
Uncertain Future and Hopeful Outlook
As Prebble looks to the future, he acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding his long-term recovery. He candidly shared,
“The answer is at this time no one actually knows where things will land.”
However, he remains hopeful, encouraged by the medical advice to stay optimistic about potential improvements while being realistic about the range of possible outcomes.
Prebble’s journey to recovery will likely be long, with rehabilitation playing a crucial role. He anticipates moving to a rehabilitation facility following his stay in the spinal care ward, where intensive therapy will be essential.
Looking Forward: The Road to Recovery
The incident has sparked conversations about safety measures in horse racing, a sport that, while exhilarating, carries significant risks. The racing community continues to evaluate and implement strategies to enhance safety for jockeys and horses alike.
Prebble’s story is a reminder of the resilience and determination that define athletes. As he navigates this challenging period, his message to supporters is clear:
“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.”
As the weeks progress, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for positive updates on Prebble’s condition. His courage and spirit serve as an inspiration, not just to those in the racing community, but to anyone facing adversity.
