John Force diagnosed with a TBI; making daily improvements

By Anthony Caruso III | Publisher

John Force has been diagnosed with a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), according to the latest update from John Force Racing. The team said that Force has been heavily sedated since his accident one week ago.

The 75-year-old drag racing legend had an engine failure that resulted in a massive explosion at the PlayNHRA Virginia Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park in North Dinwiddie, Virginia. Medical personnel were quick to tend to Force before he was moved to a trauma hospital.

The team said that he’s slowly making daily improvements, according to family members at the hospital. Brittany Force, Ashley Force-Hood, Courtney Force-Rahal, Adria Hight (unless she got re-married), and his wife Laurie have been present at the hospital.

He initially failed to follow commanders such as to open his eyes, squeeze a hand, or move his extremities. On Wednesday, though, the team said once he was moved to the neuro-intensive care part of the hospital, then, he began to show improvements.

Since then, he’s been more consistent in his responses. He finally opened his eyes, according to the team, on Day 5.

His wife and daughters were overcome with emotion, the team said, when he said his name, John Force. And he also gave a thumbs-up.

The living legend, according to the team, has a big challenge of managing “his extreme agitation and confusion.” As a result, this has caused him distress.

Force has tried to get out of bed. But he has been restrained, according to the press release. His doctors have “described him as a raging bull.”

He is getting his memory back. He called his daughters and wife Laurie by name. He even said, “I love you.” Due to these small steps, the family is encouraged by his daily progress.

“Despite the welcomed progress, the 157-time tour winner still faces a long and difficult recovery ahead and for the immediate future, will remain in neuro-intensive care with visitation restricted to immediate family members only,” the press release said. “John’s family members extend their deepest gratitude to the medical professionals responsible for his well-being and recovery.

“They deeply appreciate the overwhelming number of heartfelt messages, prayers, support, and concern from the entire automotive and racing industries. Thank you to sponsors, fans, and the media for respecting the privacy of the Force family and the John Force Racing team members.”

Brittany Force stepped out of her 330-mph Top Fuel Dragster this weekend. It is not clear when she will return to her ride.

She has been with her father after competing on Sunday.

Currently, Austin Prock is the lone John Force Racing ride competing this weekend in Norwalk, Ohio.