March 7, 2015

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The family of University of Kentucky student-athlete Shelby Hilton and UK gymnastics head coach Tim Garrison issued the following statements about the gymnastics senior.

Statement from the family of UK senior gymnast Shelby Hilton:

Thank you for the outpouring of support and concern after Shelby’s fall last Friday at the UK/Florida competition. Shelby was taken to the University of Florida’s Shands Medical Center for treatment. Tests revealed she suffered no injuries from her fall, however, an MRI did reveal four small brain lesions that have since been diagnosed as medulloblastoma. Fortunately, since we are from Florida we have been able to be with her the entire time and believe it is in Shelby’s best interest to remain in Florida for treatment. We greatly appreciate everyone’s prayers and support and ask that the privacy of Shelby and our family is respected while we deal with this personal matter. We will be starting a Caring Bridge page in the near future and invite you to follow Shelby’s progress there.

Statement from UK head coach Tim Garrison:

“Shelby is an amazing person and a fantastic athlete who has had undeniable impact on our program. She is an optimistic and positive person by nature which will serve her well through this difficult time. Though we will miss Shelby during her treatment, our thoughts and continued prayers are with her and her family. I know our fans will join us in sending their support, but we would also like to ask that Shelby’s privacy be respected.”

Hilton, a senior from St. Petersburg, Fla., competed in each of UK’s first eight meets this season on vault and floor. She recorded a season-high 9.850 on vault on Feb. 20 in a win over Arkansas and tied it a week later at Florida. On floor, Hilton’s season-best of 9.825 came on Jan. 30 vs. Alabama and again a week later in UK’s victory at Missouri.

A link to Hilton’s page on Caring Bridge will be posted her when it becomes available.