Cloncurry cowgirl and 2017 Rodeo Queen of Australia Bessie Smits may never ride again after a serious fall off her horse on Monday evening.
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Ms Smits was riding her gelding Coal, which bucked and threw her onto a gate with force, wrapping her around it.
Speaking on Facebook, Ms Smits said the accident resulted in a Grade 4 liver laceration, potentially cracked ribs and life changing results.
“The liver surgeon has advised me that my liver is almost cut in half (and) I am incredibly lucky that my arteries holding my liver in place were not severed,” Ms Smits said.
“He said it was a miracle I am still alive.”
Ms Smits said the surgeon strongly advised her from riding a horse or participating in rodeo ever again.
“Because if I fall on my liver, I could die instantly,” she said.
Ms Smits said the news was devastating.
“I had exciting plans for my young gelding’s first year on the circuit, to fulfill my duties as Queen and to compete for a long time,” she said.
Ms Smits expects to remain in Townsville hospital for “10 days of close observation” followed by four to five weeks of bed rest.
“Thank you to everyone who has helped me, visited me or looked after me during this time,” she said.
“I can only have faith and find comfort this is all part of God’s plan and that I will come out of this stronger than ever, and with a new path in my life.
She said Rodeo Queen Quest coordinator Sharon Piggott had been very understanding and would allow her to finish her reign as Rodeo Queen even though she can no longer contribute on the equestrian side.
More than 230 people have left messages of support on her Facebook page.