Washington HBPA Organizing Fundraising for Injured Jockey Nikeela Black

In an effort to show both monetary and emotional support to jockey Nikeela Black Abrams, the Washington HBPA has organized a fundraiser to assist with her recovery. The veteran rider is recovering from injuries she sustained in a spill at the Eastern Idaho Fair at Blackfoot, Idaho. She last rode at Emerald Downs on August 26, 2018, about a week before her accident.

There are several ways Emerald Downs horsemen owners and fans can help Nikeela. A card for everyone to send get well wishes will be in the Quarter Chute Cafe this weekend. There will also be a place to drop cash donations. In addition, we have set up an account with the National HBPA Foundation. Tax deductible donations can be made to the National HBPA Foundation earmarked for Nikeela Black Abrams online by clicking here.

When making a donation, please enter Nikeela in the line asking for the name of the donation.

You may also leave checks made out to National HBPA Foundation in the Quarter Chute Cafe or at the WHBPA office located in the WTBOA Breeder’s Pavilion office. Make sure to write Nikeela on your check.

According to a GoFundMe account, set up by Nikeela’s sister, Black Abrams sustained severe spine injuries which left her paralyzed from the ribs down. Her secondary injuries included facial lacerations and a collapsed lung.

Luckily Black didn’t sustain any head trauma and is able to talk and move her arms, but doctors say it will be a long road to recovery. Yesterday, showing her strength and resiliency, Nikeela posted this update regarding her condition:

“In an attempt to keep you all as up to date as possible, I want to let you know how much I appreciate all of your comments and words of encouragement during this latest journey. Yesterday was a big day as I was released from the Intensive Care Unit and transferred to the neuro acute care floor. I was able to begin physical therapy and the surgeons are pleased with the success of Sunday’s surgery to date. I’m receiving the best care possible and have no doubt that I will have as successful a recovery as can be hope for. Once again, please know how much your comments and support mean to me at this time.”

Black has been a jockey for nearly 15 years, and her husband Lee Abrams says his wife has taken a couple falls before but nothing as serious as what happened this past Sunday.