Below are
the latest statements from Darren Chiacchia's family. Apologies for the break
in coverage - reports on The Fork and extensive travel took all editorial time. Editor's
Note: There is a front page story in today's (April 9, 2008) New
York Times entitled "Equestrians' Deaths Spread Unease in the Sport's
Growing Ranks." This article, by Katie Thomas, is beautifully researched
well worth reading and should be available on line at nytimes.com. (Put "Darren
Chiacchia" in the search box if you have trouble accessing the article.)
It tends to be hard on course designer Mark Phillips. It should be pointed out
that no-one is holding a gun to any competitor's head to force them to ride over
Captain Phillips' courses. There is only one factual error in the article an that
is in a quote from Darren's brother Daniel Chiacchia. "That's almost insulting
to tell my brother that he fell off a horse." Of course, Darren did not "fall
off a horse" - the horse fell and that is an entirely different matter.
STATEMENTS
FROM CHIACCHIA FAMILY April 8, 2008 - 5PM EDT ECMC is continuing
to provide Darren with excellent medical care. His therapists are diligent, and
are pushing Darren to accelerate his recovery. Darren appeared tired today from
yesterday’s round of work. The chest discomfort is still a problem due to
his rib fractures. All remain optimistic. April 7, 2008 - 6PM EDT Darren
had an excellent day in therapy. He was able to ambulate with a walker for approximately
50 feet, and was much more alert and oriented. He continues to be confused with
his surroundings, accompanied with obvious short term memory deficits, and some
long term memory difficulties. Assistance is no longer needed when eating, and
he has commented about having reservations at Bonefish. Being such an active individual,
it is obvious that Darren is anxious about not being as busy as he is accustomed. Team
Chiacchia Caring Kids held an impromptu neighborhood fundraiser selling various
crafts and baked goods. The Kids were proud of the $120.00 they raised for Darren’s
medical expenses. April 5, 2008 - 1PM EDT Darren’s business
operations at Independence Farm in Ocala continue to operate at full capacity,
providing the same great services to the horse community. Rumors that all horses
need to be sold, and that the business is having trouble, is just that, rumors
and misinformation. Under the watchful eye of Chester Weber and Darren’s
brother Dan, it is business as usual at the farm. Other riders have continued
to fulfill Darren’s teaching responsibilities while Darren’s full staff
remains intact, training and grooming the horses under Darren’s care. April
5, 2008 - 12:30PM EDT Yesterday was Darren’s first full day of
rehabilitation and, needless to say, it left him exhausted. The stress of the
previous day’s air transport also was a factor. His rehab doctors and therapists
are optimistic with the progress he has displayed since the accident. Darren still
needs assistance to walk, and is limited to very short distances. His left arm
and leg seem to be lagging in progress. Darren is engaged in speech, occupational,
and physical rehabilitation daily by a specialist in each discipline. Erie County
Medical Center (ECMC) is one of the premier brain trauma facilities in New York
State. The family has met with hospital staff and his attending physician, Dr.
Wang, and are comfortable and confident that Darren will receive the best possible
care. | 