Rachel Alexandra

Would definitely agree they must be relieved it was a filly!  Sounds like she has pretty big foals? Wouldn't think anyone would miss her foaling but maybe they overfed her - unlikely but who knows... ? Be interesting to see if they do put her in foal again - would guess they'll miss this year. Gutting though..

If she was anyone other breed, the owners would be doing an embryo transfer.

I've obviously not seen a full diagnosis but if they have removed part of the colon and she had excess fluid in her abdomen then this is unlikely to be a foaling delivery issue per se.  She may well have thrashed about (colic like) and twisted her colon causing it have restricted blood flow and dead tissue which then perforates and allows waste material etc to get where it shouldnt and cause infection.  If thats anywhere near then she's lucky to have made it and will need some serious rehab as getting to the colon isnt usually key-hole stuff (although these yank vets are cutting edge).  As ever its the nice ones that get the problems!

I've just had a look at a video posted on the Bloodhorse site which is a bit more illuminating. I'm having a panic as my best mare showed some discomfort after foaling her first and I am awaiting no.2 so I have decided she is the double of R A and I am in for big trouble

I think in this game there is so much to go wrong it's a brave man or woman that potters trough it all totally relaxed.

However I don't recommend the other end of the spectrum either, with my attendant neuroses !