Veteran NHRA driver John Force had a significant traumatic brain injury in a terrifying crash at the Virginia Nationals roughly a week ago. During the first round of Funny Car eliminations, Force’s car, which was traveling at almost 300 mph, suffered a catastrophic engine failure immediately after crossing the line. The problem sent his automobile careening across the centerline, smashing into the left concrete guard wall before colliding forcefully with the right wall.
At the scene, Force acted quickly, speaking with safety staff before the NHRA medical team completed an initial inspection. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was airlifted to the hospital and admitted to a trauma Intensive Care Unit before being transferred to a neurological ICU for specialized care.
After a week of stressful uncertainty, Force’s condition seemed to be improving. Force, who was unable to follow directions or move at first, began responding to commands and recognizing family members after five days of intense sedation. Notably, he interacted vocally and performed movements such as giving a thumbs-up, showing a considerable improvement in his recuperation.
The most recent team update reads: “After five tense days during which he was heavily sedated while battling the effects of injuries suffered in the 300 mile-per-hour crash of his drag racing Funny Car, 16-time NHRA World Champion John Force has begun to show daily signs of improvement, according to family members who have maintained a presence at the trauma hospital to which he was transported by air ambulance on Sunday.
“Early in the treatment process of his Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), he failed to follow the series of commands to open his eyes, squeeze the hands of his care providers and move his extremities. Occasionally, he was able to respond with slight movements, but it wasn’t until he moved from trauma intensive care unit to neuro intensive care unit on Wednesday that he began to gain some momentum.
“He became more consistent responding to commands and finally opened his eyes on day five. Following days of failed attempts, his wife and daughters were overcome with emotion when he murmured his name, ‘John Force,’ and later when prompted, gave a thumbs up.”
“The biggest challenge has been managing his extreme agitation and confusion, which causes him significant distress. He has repeatedly tried to get out of bed and has been restrained; his doctors have humorously described him as a raging bull. However, he recognized his daughters, wife, Laurie, and called them each by name. And spoke the words, ‘I love you.’ This, along with continued daily progress has uplifted their spirits.”
As John Force continues to fight his way back to health, the racing world watches and hopes, reminded once again of the inherent risks of their sport. The journey ahead remains uncertain, and the full impact of his injuries on his future both on and off the track is yet to unfold.
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