JOCKEY Graham Lee is ‘recovering well’ from surgery but his long-term future remains ‘uncertain’ after his horrific fall.
The Grand National-winning rider, 47, is in intensive care at Royal Victoria Infirmary Hospital in Newcastle.
Action Images – ReutersEveryone in racing is praying for good news on Lee’s condition[/caption]
The latest development on his condition came as daughter Amy spoke out after the JustGiving page set up for her dad neared £100,000.
All the biggest racing names and fans from all over the world have donated what they can to the cause.
And now everyone is hoping their efforts are met with good news about Lee’s progress.
An Injured Jockeys Fund statement posted on Wednesday read: “Jockey Graham Lee had surgery yesterday at the Royal Victoria Infirmary Hospital in Newcastle to stabilise the fractures in his cervical spine and further protect his spinal cord.
“He also had a tracheostomy performed to allow him to be more comfortable and improve communication.
“While Graham has recovered from the surgery well, the extent of his long term recovery remains uncertain.”
Lee, who won the world’s most famous race in 2004 on Amberleigh House, sustained his injuries at Newcastle on Friday night.
He fell from Ben Macdui when the horse left the stalls in a Flat race.
Lee’s 18-year-old daughter Amy set up the JustGiving page on Monday and has seen donations flood in since.
The total raised has smashed the £80,000 mark and is nearing £100,000.
In a joint-statement with the IJF, 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.”
Lee’s injuries have been called ‘very serious‘ and doctors confirmed he suffered a damaged spinal cord in the fall.
Legendary 20-time champion jockey AP McCoy said he was ‘very distressed‘ to find out about his old rival’s injuries.
And he pledged to do whatever it takes ‘for as long as it takes’ to help Lee out as best he can.
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.”
To donate to the JustGiving page click here.