JT McNamara in positive mood despite suffering paralysis in Cheltenham fall
JT McNamara is said to be "very positive" despite suffering paralysis as a result of injuries sustained at Cheltenham.
Last Updated: 29/03/13 9:13pm
However the 37-year-old is said to be in a "very positive frame of mind" despite suffering a serious neck injury.
The amateur rider was injured following a fall from Galaxy Rock at the first fence in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup on March 14.
McNamara had to be airlifted to Frenchay Hospital in Bristol, where he remains, although plans are to be made for a transfer to Dublin in due course.
A statement issued jointly by Dr Adrian McGoldrick, Irish Turf Club Senior Medical Officer and Lisa Hancock, CEO, Injured Jockeys Fund, on behalf of the McNamara family read: "JT McNamara remains in the Frenchay Hospital, Bristol.
"Whilst he suffered a serious neck injury resulting in paralysis, he has made progress in the last week and is in a very positive frame of mind.
"He is greatly appreciative of the many messages, cards and letters received and also wishes to thank the Frenchay Hospital who are looking after him so well."
Speaking about the incident, Hancock told Sky Sports News: "It's a risky sport. Safety is important and it continues to be, but it is a risky sport and every jockey knows that. We are looking at safety measures and continue to do so.
"But at the end of the day you're riding a horse at speed and jumping fences at speed so the risk is always there."