Earlier she had been playing without fear, for the rest of the miserable ten games she had to endure, she looked like a woman in a daze.

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Addressing media Thursday from a bed wheeled into a hospital conference center, Ms. Abbott was also clear-eyed about the challenges of rehabilitation and the pain she may endure along the way.

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Everyone, especially women will be sympathising and rooting for her - even if she has to endure more well-meaning, homely suggestions such as "eat more ginger".

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