Jockey Tom Prebble shares devastating health update from hospital bed after Warrnambool fall

Apprentice jockey Tom Prebble has issued a devastating health update after undergoing major surgery on his spine, revealing there is “nothing happening” from his ribs down.

The 23-year-old son of legendary Melbourne Cup winner Brett and Maree, a member of the famous Payne family, was injured in a horrific fall at Warrnambool last week.

His parents spoke on his behalf last week to thank the various medical teams for their care and the racing community for their support.

Prebble himself has now shared an update to thank everyone who has looked after him.

He was transferred from The Alfred Hospital’s ICU to that of the Austin, where he will soon begin a multi-week stay in the spinal care ward.

He also thanked everyone who has looked after him.

“I’m told it’s likely I’ll stay there for the next few weeks before hopefully being able to move to a rehabilitation facility where I can start months of work,” Prebble said.

“I know there’s been a mountain of concern and care about where I’m at and I’m very appreciative of that.

“I’m happy to make it as clear as I can where things have landed one week in.

“My key injury is to my spinal cord. At the moment I’ve got nothing happening from the bottom of my rib cage down through my body... currently no feeling or movement.

“My doctors say it’s now a waiting game over the coming weeks and months to see where things land.

“The message is very clear: to remain fully optimistic re: improvement but also be realistic and that there are a full range of possible outcomes from this injury.”

Prebble went on to acknowledge his uncertain future.

“So, to the question we all want an answer to: what about my long-term recovery of feeling, movement and mobility?” he wrote.

“The answer is at this time no one actually knows where things will land.

“My other injuries are a fracture to my spine at T5 that required surgery to stabilise it, a fracture to my neck that did not need surgery but will require a neck brace for maybe three months, some rib fractures and minor lung-related issues which will heal quickly, and some damage to my teeth.

“I hope how I’ve explained it is clear and puts everyone in the picture. From here on, I’m happy to provide updates as my situation changes, but that’s where I’m at today.

“Lastly, 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. I’m so grateful to them for their love and support.

“That thanks goes out to everyone who has expressed their best wishes and concerns for me. 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.’’