American eventer Darren Chiacchia making good progress

American eventer Darren Chiacchia, who was seriously injured in a rotational fall 10 days ago at Red Hills Horse Trials, is now breathing independently and able to communicate.

Darren remains in intensive care, but has made significant progress in the past week. Statements on his website first reported that he had squeezed people’s hands on command and opened his eyes last Thursday, 20 March.

The latest update from his family reads: “Darren was removed from the ventilator today and has been breathing independently now for about six hours. His ability to communicate is also improving, utilizing hand gestures and making appropriate eye contact. Prognosis remains positive, but he remains in the ICU [intensive care unit].”

Darren was injured in a rotational fall during a preliminary level competition at Red Hills Horse Trials, Florida on Saturday, 15 March. His mount, Baron Verdi, was unhurt.

Darren Chiacchia’s website

Pippa Roome

H&H magazine editor and eventing editor

Pippa is a true eventing geek and has been H&H’s eventing editor since 2005. She has first-hand experience of competing up to British Eventing intermediate and international CCI2*-L level, and has worked in the industry on a top event yard. Pippa enjoys nothing more than immersing herself in the sport at the highest level, reporting from the five-stars and international championships, including the Olympics.