Michael Straight Update

Jockey Matthew Straight, twin brother of apprentice jockey Michael Straight who was injured in a Aug. 26 incident at Arlington Park , has issued the following statement regarding the condition of his brother.

“Mike had a minor procedure this morning to remove a little air build-up in his lungs, which the doctors tell me is common for people on a ventilator. That procedure was successful.

“He had an MRI yesterday and the results came back as expected – that there is a head injury and a spinal injury. The doctors say the head injury will heal on its own in time.

“He still has no feeling in his lower body but until the swelling around the spine goes down, we are keeping positive thoughts.

“He is responding to commands and shakes his head “Yes” and “No” when responding to questions and holding up fingers when asked."

Michael Straight Update

From Dave Zenner
Arlington Park
Jockey Matthew Straight, twin brother of apprentice jockey Michael Straight who was injured in a Wednesday incident at Arlington Park , has issued the following statement regarding the condition of his brother.

“Mike is now responsive to commands. We know it’s going to be a slow step-by-step process but we are staying optimistic and staying strong. He is scheduled to undergo a few procedures today.

“We are working on setting up a fund for those wishing to contribute and as soon as we have those details – we will pass that information along.

“Please continue to keep Mike in your thoughts and prayers.”

Note: Matthew will continue to issue updates as appropriate.

Apprentice Jockey Michael Straight Update

Apprentice jockey Michael Straight, seriously injured in an Aug. 26 spill at Chicago’s Arlington Park, undergwent surgery for four fractured vertebrae at Luther General Hospital in Park Ridge, Ill. The Daily Racing Form reported Friday that Straight may be paralyzed as a result of the accident.

Following is an update from Dave Zenner, Senior Manager of Communications at Arlington Park:

FRIDAY MORNING (AUG. 28) STATEMENT FROM MATTHEW STRAIGHT
Jockey Matthew Straight, twin brother of apprentice jockey Michael Straight who was injured in a Wednesday incident at Arlington Park, has issued the following statement regarding the condition of his brother.

"Mike's surgery last night was successful and everything went as planned. The doctors said it could not have gone any better. We know there is still a long way to go and now it's just a waiting game to see how good and how quick he heels up.

"He's off the majority of sedation and we're waiting for him to come out of it on his own. We know it's going to be a long road back and we're not going anywhere.

"Everybody has been so supportive with phone calls, e-mails and even Facebook messages. It hasn't gone unnoticed. Our family appreciates the support and the love. It's times like this that bring everyone together. Please keep Mike in your prayers.

"We appreciate everyone's support but also ask that you respect our family's privacy and when we feel it is the appropriate time to talk more publicly, we will do so."

There is also a link the Michael Straight Get Well Card on the right. You may send your thoughts, prayers and well wishes to the Straight family.