Jockey Kaidan Brewer recovering after Turffontein horror fall
The top jockey has regained 100% body functionality with no broken bones as doctors continue monitoring his recovery after the racecourse accident.
Top jockey Kaidan Brewer has shown 100% body functionality and no broken bones following a fall at Turffontein Racecourse on September 12.
Kaidan was admitted to Milpark Hospital after falling during the closing stages of the fifth race. His mount, Kudikaran, appeared to go wrong and stumbled near the finish line, unseating him before falling over him.
He was taken to hospital for further medical assessment and treatment.
In a statement issued by the Brewer family on the evening of September 12, they confirmed he had been placed in Trauma High Care while doctors monitored bleeding in the brain.
“We are advised that Kaidan has been placed in Trauma High Care, where medical staff are closely monitoring some bleeding on the brain,” the family said.
“He also sustained severe facial bruising and a slight cheekbone fracture. He is receiving the best possible medical attention, and the care team is keeping a close watch on his condition.”
The family thanked the public and the racing community for their support.
In an update issued on September 15, the Brewer family shared encouraging news about his recovery.
Andrew Brewer said he had made “remarkable medical improvement” and that his surgeon and medical team were very pleased with his progress.
“He shows 100% body functionality with no limb fractures; in fact, absolutely nothing broken, didn’t even chip a tooth,” he said. “There is not a single cut on his body, just facial bruising which has significantly decreased.”
He was also scheduled to begin physiotherapy on September 15.
The family said that although he appeared physically well, doctors had explained that sleeping and keeping his eyes closed following an injury or concussion can be a natural response as the brain recovers from the trauma.
A psychologist was also scheduled to see him for support.
Adding a lighter moment to the update, Andrew said that, while half asleep, Kaidan told him he needed to get to work on Sunday because he was riding a winning horse on September 24.
The family again expressed appreciation for the continued prayers, well-wishes and support received from South Africa and internationally.
4Racing extended its best wishes to him and the Brewer family for his continued recovery and a full return to health.
Sadly, Kudikaran sustained fractures to its left front scapula and humerus in the incident and was humanely euthanised.
