'Frightening' Fraser news rocks star on eve of world champs
12/09/2024 06:20 PM
Lani Pallister has expressed her best wishes for Dawn Fraser following the news the Olympic legend had been admitted into hospital with serious injuries.
Fraser was rushed to hospital on Monday following a serious fall in her Queensland home that left her with four broken ribs and a broken hip.
The 87-year-old was admitted to intensive care and underwent a hip replacement, but has since been moved and remains in a stable condition.
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Reports of the incident emerged on the eve of the World Short Course Championships in Budapest, with Pallister one of the many Australian stars preparing to take centre stage.
The 22-year-old shares a close bond with Fraser, who has been seen tearing up in the stands as she watches god-daughter achieve the dream she once also had in pool.
Pallister's legendary god-mother has assisted her through some of the biggest challenges in her young career, but the gold medallist admitted she was left frightened by the news of Fraser's fall.
"Hearing about her fall has been both stressful and frightening, given the relationship we share," she said in a statement on Tuesday.
"Janelle and I want to express our deep heartfelt concern for Dawn's recent incident that led to her hospitalisation. Dawn is not just an extraordinary athlete and icon, she is an incredibly special part of our life, and her wellbeing is always in our thoughts.
"We are relieved to hear that she is doing well and is receiving the care she needs from her family and the hospital staff."
Pallister, daughter of Olympic swimmer Janelle (née Elford), confirmed she has been in contact with Fraser's family since the incident.
Janelle, who competed at the Seoul 1988 Olympics, coaches her daughter alongside Michael Bohl at the Griffin University campus on the Gold Coast.
The family requested privacy as Pallister prepares to begin her world's campaign.
"I have personally been in contact with the family and have sent all her love and our best wishes," Janelle said.
"Thank you for respecting our privacy during this time, today is the first day of World Championships in Budapest and Lani has a long campaign prior to being able to return home."
President of the Australian Olympic Committee Ian Chesterman also offered his best wishes on behalf of the swimming community.
"Dawn Fraser is an icon of Olympic sport and like so many Australians we are pleased to hear she is making good progress after her surgery," he said.
"Our thoughts are with Dawn and we wish her well in her recovery."
Pallister will return to action in the pool at the World Short Course Championships later this week, with competition set to begin on Tuesday.
All coverage of the competition can be found live and free on Nine and 9Now.
