Slow recovery for Tahlia Hope in hospital

Melbourne apprentice Tahlia Hope remains in hospital as she recovers from viral meningitis.

Apprentice Tahlia Hope could remain in hospital for up to three weeks as she recovers from viral meningitis.

Hope was admitted to ICU at Victoria’s Frankston Hospital last week after falling ill while riding in barrier trials at Mornington.

Victorian Jockeys’ Association chief executive Matthew Hyland has been in regular contact with Hope’s father Shannon.

Hyland said it was still a waiting game as Hope has had some mixed moments in her recovering.

He said it had also been a stressful time for her family.

“The latest report is that over the weekend she had a fluctuating temperature,” Hyland told RSN927.

“She was improving during the day but then had some rough nights.

“She’s in the right place and hopefully tests today shed some more light on where things are going and hopefully she continues to improve.

“It’s been a pretty stressful period for the family. They’re there with her and she’s getting as much support as she can.”

Hope has recently suffered concussion and a broken nose, but Hyland doubted those injuries played a part in her contracting viral meningitis.

“A jockey’s lifestyle, their immune system is always tested, particularly at this time of the year,” Hyland said.

“When you’re wasting, up early and working hard, you can be exposed to viruses and that sort of thing.”