Driver to undergo spinal surgery after horrific fall

PROMINENT horsewoman Lisa Ryan is due to undergo spinal surgery following a horrific fall at Globe Derby last night.

Driving Kuhio Crest in the Kindergarten Stake, Ryan was catapulted from the sulky as a result of a collision, which saw her fly “about 15 metres” before crashing to the track.

Unable to move, Ryan spent close to 30 minutes on the ground before being stabilised and transported to hospital.

Scans revealed Ryan has cracked eight vertebrae and broken three ribs.

Although no spinal cord damage has been detected, surgeons will insert screws into Ryan’s spine as a precaution.

“In some ways she is very lucky,” Ryan’s husband Toby said.

“She can move her arms and legs, which means there is no damage to the spinal cord.

“There is still a concern of pressure being put on the spinal cord so they will operate on her and insert screws to help reduce the prospect of further damage.”

Despite the ordeal Ryan has maintained a positive attitude, according to Ryan.

“She’s in a fair bit of pain, but is in high spirits,” Toby said.

“She has a long, slow recovery process ahead of her, but it could have been a lot worse.

“We’ve had so many calls and messages asking how Lisa is and I want to thank everyone for the well wishes.”