GRAHAM LEE fans have been keeping up to date with the jockey’s health as the sportsman recovers from a horrific fall.
Supporters and fellow big names in the world of horse racing have shown an outpouring of support for the star, from Ireland, after he suffered a “serious injury”.
Graham Lee’s family gave an update on his condition on Friday, November 17.
In what is sure to be reassuring news for fans, the statement revealed Lee is slowly but surely showing signs of a recovery.
It also confirmed that the jockey is now able to speak to his loved ones intermittently.
The family statement read: “Graham has made positive progress in the last 24 hours and has been able to talk normally with his family for short periods when his ventilator is turned down.
“He has been reviewed by his Spinal Consultant and when a bed becomes available in the ITU at James Cook Hospital, Middlesbrough, he will be transferred closer to home.
“Graham and his family want to thank everyone for their continued and overwhelming support”.
Lee was taken to intensive care after a terrifying fall on Friday, November 10.
He was injured after he was unseated as his horse, Ben Moacdui, left the stalls at Newcastle Racecourse.
Lee suffered an “unstable cervical fracture causing damage to the spinal cord” and “damage at blood vessels in the mid-cervical region,” according to Injured Jockeys Fund.
The former Grand National winner was rushed to the Royal Victoria Infirmary Hospital in Newcastle before undergoing surgery.
The morning after the accident the Injured Jockeys Fund released a statement to updated Lee’s concerned fans.
It read: “[Lee] was taken by ambulance to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, where he is in intensive care with a neck injury.
“He will undergo further tests today to assess the extent of the injury.”
A few days later the charity released another statement, saying: “This is a very serious injury and at this early time it is not possible to predict the extent of long term recovery.
“Graham’s family are very grateful for the many messages of support that they have had.”
Many big names from the world of horse racing were quick to send their well wishes to Lee and his family after news of his injury broke.
On social media, BBC racing presenter Derek Thompson said: “Graham Lee is simply one of the finest both in & out of the saddle.
“A top class horseman and the first to say ‘hello’ at the racecourse – always the one to have a laugh & a joke with.
“Sending prayers & strength, Big Fella, for a successful recovery.”
Meanwhile jockey, and president of the Injured Jockeys Fund, AP McCoy said: “Like everyone in racing, we at the IJF are all devastated with the news of the injuries that Graham Lee sustained from his horrific fall.
“All our thoughts are with Graham, his wife Becky, and their family.
“As bad as Graham’s injuries are, please do rest assured that our team at the IJF will look after his needs to assist him in his recovery and predicament for as long as it takes.
“Whatever help he and his family need, we will be there to provide it.”
Graham is married to his wife, Becky.
The couple share a daughter called Amy and a son called Robbie.
Amy is 18 years old as of November 2023 and her younger brother is 15.
The family lives in Bedale, North Yorkshire.
After her father’s accident Amy set up a JustGiving page to raise donations for charity.
In a joint statement with the Injured Jockeys Fund, she said: “I am personally writing down each and every message and donation that comes through and I share all of these with Dad.
“To be honest, it’s simply overwhelming and we can’t believe that so many people are thinking of us.
“I wish I could explain how much of a difference it will make to Dad’s recovery knowing that he has your support.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
