[Tuck4Bama]

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jodie Edmonds
PR / Marketing Manager
719.471.3008, ext. 3146 office
719.439.7657 cell
jodie@pbrnow.com

UPDATE: Lee Akin critically injured in Montgomery, Alabama


http://www.pbrnow.com/images/dynimg.cfm?ID=4172&T=0
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (April 17, 2007) - Akin's most recent surgery was Tuesday, April 10th when doctors planned to replace a portion of Lee's skull that was previously removed to relieve pressure on his brain. Due to continued swelling, the doctors were unable to proceed with the scheduled surgery. Lee remains in intensive care but continues to show improvement and responsiveness to his family. As soon as Akin's breathing becomes regulated - now assisted by a collar that adds oxygen - Lee can be relocated to a rehab hospital. More updates will be posted as they become available.
Akin was a fixture on the PBR's Built Ford Tough Series presented by Wrangler from 2002 to 2006 and had four BFTS event wins to his credit. He and his wife, Mary, welcomed a daughter, Jada Marie, on September 21, 2006.
On Thursday evening, March 8, 2007, PBR bull rider, Lee Akin (Weatherford, Okla.) was severely injured during a PRCA event in Montgomery, Alabama when a bull stepped on his head following his ride. He was treated at the scene and taken to Baptist South hospital's intensive care unit for further examination, where doctors determined he had a traumatic brain injury. Akin remains under the care of doctors in Montgomery. He has undergone two successful surgeries to relieve the swelling of his brain.

RRF Breakfast Benefit:
Resistol Relief Fund is conducting a Breakfast Benefit in honor of Lee Akin Saturday, April 21 in Billings, Mont., at the BFTS NILE Invitational. The breakfast will be held at the Billings Hotel & Convention Center located at 1223 Mullowney Lane at 9 a.m. All proceeds will benefit Lee Akin and his family. Come have breakfast with some of the top PBR riders.
A breakfast ticket sells for $25. For additional information, please contact Lindsey Gaston with RRF at 719-471-3008 ext. 3128. Media should RSVP to Angela Hiatt, PR & Marketing Manager, at 719-439-8731.
Benefit Auctions:
Several benefit auctions have been established for Lee and his family at http://www.thebreedersconnection.com/. Cash donations are also being accepted through Pro Bull Riding Outreach and http://www.thebreedersconnection.com/.
To send your thoughts, prayers and wishes to Akin and his family, please click here http://pbrnow.com/leeAkin/index.cfm.