Parents of seriously injured jockey release emotional update after spinal surgery

2 days ago 7

The parents of seriously injured jockey Tom Prebble have released an emotional statement of support for their son as he recovers from spinal surgery in The Alfred Hospital.

Prebble, 23, was flown by air ambulance to Melbourne on Tuesday after falling during the last race at Warrnambool.

Tom Prebble is recovering from spinal surgery in The Alfred hospital.

His father, retired Melbourne Cup-winning hoop Brett Prebble, and mother, Maree Payne, said on Friday their son’s recovery and rehabilitation would take “a very long time”.

“Tom had major surgery to his spine on Tuesday night after trauma to T5 was identified,” they said in a statement.

“The surgery to stabilise his spine was successful and his doctors now advise he is on the road to recovery while the full extent of his injuries remains unclear.

“While we would like to provide more information to everyone at this time, the fact is the expert medical professionals treating Tom are not able to say what his outcome will be.”

The T5 is the fifth thoracic vertebra which helps protect the spinal cord is located between the shoulder blades.

Prebble was apprenticed to his mother’s brother and sister - training partnership Patrick and Michelle Payne - and was beginning to make a mark in the riding ranks, having ridden a treble at Flemington in June and then winning the rising star series for Victorian apprentices in July.

His parents said they understood the “level of concern being expressed for Tom” since his accident.

“We are grateful he is such a popular, respected and much-loved member of the Victorian jockey ranks after only entering our sport three years ago,” they said.

The statement also thanked the Ambulance Victoria crews who treated their son.

“First, on Tom’s behalf, we want to express our appreciation to the Racing Victoria Raceday Medical Team who attended Tom within seconds of the fall,” his parents said.

“We are indebted to the air transportation wing of Ambulance Victoria, who were responsible for transporting Tom from Warrnambool Racecourse to The Alfred Hospital with such professionalism, care and compassion.

“We want to thank The Alfred Hospital Emergency Department, every person in the surgical team and the incredible people in the Intensive Care Unit where Tom remains today.

Brett Prebble on Green Moon celebrates with James McDonald riding Fiorente.

“Words cannot possibly express Tom’s and our appreciation for your kindness, care, professionalism and support.

“From here on, we would ask that Tom’s and our privacy be respected.

“Lastly, as Tom’s parents, we would like to express our thanks to Matt Hyland from Victorian Jockeys Association, Lisa Stevens from VJA/RV Jockey Assistance Program, RV CMO Dr Ben Barresi and all at Racing Victoria for their unwavering support from the moment of his injury and we thank you all once again for your care and concern.”