Limerick boxer Lee Reeves begins physiotherapy at UHL

The 31-year-old was transferred to University Hospital Limerick to be closer to family after treatment in Dublin hospitals

Gary Culley (right) in action against Lee Reeves at 3Arena, Dublin. Picture: Damien Eagers/PA Wire.

Limerick boxer Lee Reeves is receiving physiotherapy at University Hospital Limerick after undergoing major surgery.

The 31-year-old from Roxboro was stretchered from the ring after a bout on August 1 and taken to Beaumont Hospital, where he underwent surgery and was placed in an induced coma.

He was later transferred to the Mater Hospital, where he remained in intensive care. He has since moved to University Hospital Limerick, bringing him closer to his family.

Mr Reeves’ friend and former coach, Jonathan O’Brien, has been sharing updates on behalf of the family.

Mr O’Brien said the boxer had received a “special chair” needed for his physiotherapy treatment.

“They were able to do the physio with Lee yesterday out of the bed. They had him out of bed for about 25-30 minutes,” Mr O’Brien said.

Physiotherapy continues

Although Mr Reeves is not yet conscious, he will continue to receive physiotherapy to “keep stimulating the brain”.

Physiotherapy can be used for unconscious patients as a preventative measure against complications such as joint stiffness or changes in muscle tone.

Mr O’Brien previously told the Irish Examiner that Mr Reeves had been awaiting a cranioplasty, a procedure to repair the section of skull removed during his initial surgery.

The operation had been postponed for several weeks before taking place at the Mater Hospital.

A number of fundraising events have been held to support the boxer and help his family meet mounting medical expenses.