John Force Recovery Revealed in Heart Warming Photo With Daughter Courtney
John Force, a legendary name in drag racing and a 16-time NHRA champion, is making huge strides in his recovery after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a high-speed crash. Now, his daughter Courtney has posted a photo of the driver, updating his fans on his recovery.
In late June of this year, Force’s Funny Car engine exploded during the NHRA Virginia Nationals, propelling him into a concrete wall at 302 mph. The crash led to severe injuries, including a TBI and a fractured sternum, but recent photos shared by his daughter Courtney Force provide a hopeful glimpse into his recovery journey.
Immediately after the crash, Force managed to exit the wreckage, though heavily injured. He was airlifted to a Virginia hospital, where he spent 15 days before being transferred to the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix for specialized care.
Following 30 days of intensive treatment, Force was discharged to continue outpatient therapy at home, regaining his equilibrium and the ability to walk with assistance. However, he still contends with cognitive and short-term memory issues according to reports.
His family’s support has been important during this period, particularly from his daughters, Courtney and Brittany Force. Courtney’s recent Instagram post provides fans with an update of the driver’s well-being, sharing moments of a heart-warming family moment. John Force can be seen to the right with his arm in a cast.
“Enjoyed the time we had in Tahoe this summer. It was filled with long walks, time with family, farmers market, beach days and ice cream dates with the girls. 💕 Cherishing every moment,” Courtney posted (below).
Brittany Force also shared updates a mere 30 days after his crash.
“Peace out Phoenix! After 30 days my dad is finally heading home where we will continue outpatient therapy. These next steps to recovery will definitely be a family effort!” she posted (below).
The official update from John Force Racing confirms that Force is undergoing outpatient speech, occupational, and physical therapy to address his remaining cognitive challenges.
“A month after an engine explosion sent his race car careening into a concrete guardwall at more than 300 miles per hour at Virginia Motorsports Park, drag racing champion John Force was discharged Tuesday from Barrow Neurological Institute, where he was undergoing rehab for a TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury).
“According to family members, while the 16-time Funny Car Champion will continue to work with therapists specializing in such injuries, it now will be on an outpatient basis in California.
“‘He finally gets to sleep in his own bed,’ said daughter Ashley Hood who, with sisters Brittany, Courtney and Adria and mother, Laurie, maintained a constant presence through the Hall of Fame driver and car owner’s hospitalizations in Virginia and Arizona.
“The next phase in the recovery process will be outpatient speech, and OTPT (Occupational and Physical Therapy) to address lingering short-term memory and cognitive issues.”
Force’s storied career, which began in 1978, has seen him achieve 157 career Funny Car event wins, adding to his legendary status in the sport. Despite his accident, he remains competitive, standing fifth in the 2024 NHRA Funny Car standings through 11 of the 20 events this season, with Jack Beckman standing in for the driver.
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