Champion Queensland harness racing trainer/driver Grant Dixon is facing his biggest battle yet. Survival. The record breaking horseman has been diagnosed with Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), a cancer of the blood cells, mainly affecting adults which usually grows slowly at first.
Dixon, 39, received the shattering news after a routine visit to his local medical centre last Monday before undergoing further testing throughout the week.A trephine bone marrow biopsy was carried out on Thursday at the Brisbane Mater Hospital and results are expected within two weeks which will then determine the course of treatment required."
It's been a difficult week but I must remain positive and continue my treatment and act on the advice of the Doctors who are looking after me, I'm in very good hands and the experts seem rather optimistic about my future." Dixon stated.
The star reinsman stood himself down from all commitments this week with the exception of one horse, juvenile freak Majestic Mach who claimed his ninth straight win when successful in the Gr.1 $100,000 RQIS 2yo Colts & Geldings Final at Albion Park last night (Saturday).
Dixon will not drive for an indefinite period pending further advice from medical professionals."I wanted to take the drive on Razzle (Majestic Mach) to complete his season, he's a horse in a million and he means the world to me.
The victory proved to be the boost I was hoping for and now he will go to the paddock for well earned rest and then hopefully we can work back up together."
Dixon operates the biggest harness racing stable in the sunshine state with over 55 horses in work at any given time at his Tamborine property, the stable leads all trainers premiership's at all Queensland TAB tracks.
Since taking over as the head trainer from his iconic father Bill in his first full season, Dixon has prepared over 255 winners this term.During this difficult time, the Dixon family appreciates that their privacy be respected.
by Chris Barsby
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