Veteran Queensland jockey Shane McGovern, 67, has been moved to palliative care following complications from a freak accident at his stables last month. McGovern lost both legs after being trapped for six hours under his horse Reformist, who died from an aneurysm.
McGovern was found by his wife and fellow trainer Kim. His left leg was amputated first, followed by his right leg two weeks later. Despite further surgery to remove more of his left leg, complications persisted.
“He has been transferred to the palliative care unit due to ongoing issues,” the Australian Jockeys Association (AJA) said in a statement. “He has his family by his side now as he continues with this horrendous battle.”
AJA health safety officer Kevin Ring told Racenet that doctors could not control the infection and McGovern was bleeding internally. “They just couldn’t control the infection and he was also bleeding internally,” Ring said. “The family just agreed it was best to let him rest and keep him comfortable.”
In addition to losing blood circulation to both legs, McGovern suffered broken ribs and a dislocated shoulder during the incident. A GoFundMe campaign has raised $83,000 to support the family.
