INJURED jockey Graham Lee has spoken for the first time since his horrific fall in November.
The Grand National-winning jockey suffered life-changing injuries when being thrown from the saddle in a Flat race at Newcastle.
Graham Lee suffered life-changing injuries in a fall at Newcastle in NovemberPA
TwitterLee raised a smile alongside trainer Henrietta Knight as racing united in support of the jockey after his life-threatening fall[/caption]
Lee, 48, is still receiving treatment in the spinal unit of Middlesbrough’s James Cook Hospital.
He was seen for the first time since his injury earlier this month, when a picture of him in a wheelchair alongside trainer Henrietta Knight was posted on social media.
In a statement released via the Injured Jockeys’ Fund, he thanked people for their support and said he was hoping to return home in the next few months.
Lee said: “It’s three months now since my accident and I thought it was appropriate for me to say something publicly for the first time.
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“Frankly, I’ve been overwhelmed by the unbelievable support and good wishes sent by everyone and I’d like to thank you all so much on behalf of myself, my wife Becky and our children, Amy and Robbie.
“It feels like I’m in a bit of a bubble here at the James Cook Spinal Unit but the girls share with me all the messages that they are receiving and every single one is appreciated, as is the support of my great friends who continue to visit me so regularly and keep my spirits up.
“I never really considered that I had achieved that much as a jockey and it seems crazy that so many people are thinking of us all. I can’t deny it has been – and continues to be – hard for us all, but these messages, help us all so much.
“I would also like to thank the team of nurses here who are just unbelievable in the around the clock care and support they offer us all.
“As most of you know, the injuries I have suffered are life-changing and there is a long road ahead.
“But we have just received planning permission so that work can start to adapt our home in the hope that that I will be able to leave hospital at some stage in the next few months.
“Thank you again. I am truly humbled and grateful.”