Aqueduct: Dominguez out of intensive care; rehabilitation possibilities under discussion

Barbara D. Livingston

Ramon Dominguez is no longer in intensive care but is still not allowed to have visitors.

Ramon Dominguez, who continues to progress in his recovery from a slightly displaced skull fracture at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center in Manhattan, was transferred Thursday from the neurological intensive care onit to a medical step-down unit.

“The step-down unit is an intermediate location between the ICU and a regular, inpatient room,” said his wife, Sharon Dominguez, in a press release issued by the New York Racing Association on Saturday afternoon.

“Ramon’s doctors say he is recovering well, and we’re beginning to discuss his rehab options.”

Currently, there is no timetable for Dominguez’s release, and doctors have prohibited him from having visitors.

“We’re so appreciative of everyone’s support, thoughts and prayers,” Sharon Dominguez said. “Many people have also given generously in Ramon’s name to the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, which is a cause he has always been passionate about. Those vital donations provide financial assistance to permanently disabled riders, and we would encourage anyone who wishes to show support for Ramon to donate at www.pdjf.org.”

Dominguez was injured when his mount, Convocation, clipped heels nearing the quarter pole of the seventh race at Aqueduct on Friday, Jan. 18. He was unseated and appeared to be struck by a trailing horse. On Tuesday, he was moved from Jamaica Medical Center Hospital in Queens, N.Y. to New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center in Manhattan.

The leading rider in New York the past four years, Dominguez was honored with his third straight Eclipse Award after winning 341 races and a record $25,582,252 in 2012.