Popular jockey Graham Lee has been transferred from Newcastle to the James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough. The move comes as he continues his recovery from a serious neck injury sustained at Newcastle two weeks ago. Lee, a Grand National and Group 1-winning jockey, hails from Yorkshire, making the move to Middlesbrough a step closer to his family home.
Moving closer to home
The Injured Jockeys' Fund has provided an update on Lee's condition, stating that he is making "positive progress." The decision to move him to the James Cook University Hospital was made to bring him closer to his family. Although he has been transferred from intensive care, Lee still faces a long rehabilitation process and remains on a ventilator.
The IJF issued a statement saying, "Graham Lee has now moved to the Spinal Unit at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough where he will remain for the foreseeable future. He is no longer in ITU but remains on a ventilator, albeit this can be reduced from time to time. His family are pleased that he is now nearer home and remain grateful for the constant support."
A shocking injury
The racing community was stunned by Lee's devastating injury, which occurred when he was unseated coming out of the stalls on Ben Macdui on November 10. In response, Lee's daughter, Amy, set up a Just Giving page to raise funds for her father's recovery. The page has already raised over £158,000.
Support from a friend
Champion jockey AP McCoy was visibly moved when discussing his friend Lee at Cheltenham last week. McCoy has been by Lee's side throughout his recovery and even drove Lee's 18-year-old daughter, Amy, to the hospital in the middle of the night. The racing community continues to rally around Lee and his family, offering their support during this difficult time.
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