Fundraising Event for Darren Chiacchia Event to Take Place April 2, 2008

Tallahassee, FL - Olympian Darren Chiacchia was critically injured from a fall while competing at Red Hills Horse Trials in Tallahassee on March 15th.  A fundraising event is being hosted in his honor in Tallahassee, Wednesday, April 2nd at 6:30pm in order to raise money to assist with his escalating medical bills.

Darren, who is a resident of Ocala, is also a member of the Florida Horse Park board.  He has been instrumental in its development and the success that has been realized at the Horse Park.  We are all committed to helping ensure his recovery and speedy return to health, and look forward to the day when he resumes his role as an integral part of our team.

Darren continues to exhibit slow but steady improvement. He is still breathing independently without a ventilator with increasing pulmonary function.  Although he remains in ICU Darren continues his gradual improvement, responding to commands and moving his extremities with more consistency.  His left lung remains problematic with a chest tube still in place draining fluids.  Cognitively he is more alert, and able to identify familiar faces.

Please joins us in Tallahassee for an evening of food, family and friends to honor Darren.  Your donation in Darren's name to the Equestrian Aid Foundation will be greatly appreciated to help pay his ever-increasing medical expenses.  If you are unable to attend this event but still want to help support this medical fund for Darren, please visit www.equestrianaidfoundation.org to make contribution in Darren's name.  Be sure to indicate Darren's name on your check or donation in order to direct it properly.