Donations help paralyzed jockey Alyssa Selman move into new home

Donations from across North America have allowed injured Manitoba jockey Alyssa Selman to buy a wheelchair-accessible home and return to the part of the province where she spent her childhood.

Selman, 29, suffered a spinal injury and lost the use of her legs after being thrown from her horse during a race at Assiniboia Downs in Winnipeg on June 27.

Soon after, donations started pouring in and the Manitoba Horseman's Benevolent and Protective Association opened trust accounts at the Toronto Dominion Bank, Assiniboine Credit Union and Access Credit Union to receive them.

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Between July 2 and Oct. 9, just over $118,000 was raised, according to a note on the Assiniboia Downs website as well as the GoFundMe page set up for Selman.

​Funds also came in through a benefit social as well as sales of horseshoe necklaces at Assiniboia Downs.

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Selman put the money toward the purchase of a four-year-old home in Stephenfield, southwest of Winnipeg. She, her husband and their two children began moving into their new home in November. Completely wheelchair accessible, from the appliances to the shower, the home sits on four acres of land and has a barn, the notes on the website and GoFundMe page state.

The donated funds covered about half the home's price, and Selman's monthly government disability payments will cover her mortgage payments. 

"Alyssa is extremely happy with her new home and wishes to sincerely thank each and every donor and every person who contributed in any way to the success of the fundraising drive," the note states on behalf of Selman.

"She simply cannot believe the support that she has received. She has heartfelt appreciation for this support."