Horse Racing: Rachel Alexandra’s Condition Now “Serious, But Stable”

2009 Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra remains in “serious but stable” condition as she continues to recover from abdominal surgery performed last Wednesday following complications from foaling a Bernardini filly early last week. The now 7-year-old daughter of Medaglia d’Oro was “bright and alert with normal vital signs,” doctors reported at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital near Lexington, Ky., this weekend and she also began receiving a very small amount of feed in addition to her IV fluids and nutrition. Attending veterinarians Dr. Bonnie Barr and Dr. Brett Woodie were encouraged by her progress. “Rachel continues to be monitored closely at Rood & Riddle,” owner Stonestreet Farm said in a press release. “If her condition should change, we will provide a timely update, otherwise, we continue to be deeply grateful for the support and comfort her fans have provided during this difficult time.” Rachel Alexandra delivered the 140-pound filly last Tuesday, after which she underwent exploratory surgery to determine the cause of excess fluid in her abdominal cavity. A damaged section of her small colon was discovered. It was surgically repaired before an infection set in and began reeking havoc. Rachel Alexandra’s foal continues to do well. She has adjusted well to her nurse mare and has been enjoying paddock turnout at Stonestreet Farm near Lexington, it was reported.  This is the second foal for Rachel Alexandra, who received treatment for pain at Rood & Riddle following the birth of her Curlin colt named Jess’s Dream. Stonerstreet Stables add another update would be release sometime today (Monday, Feb 18).   Rachel Alexandra in her paddock