Ashley Force Hood and Brittany Force, John Force’s children, have posted heartfelt updates on social media as the NHRA driver continues to recuperate after a devastating 300 mph incident.
Ashley Force Hood was filled with pride for her father’s strength as he recovered. She wrote:
“I’m really proud of my father, John Force; he’s such a fighter. He has a long way to go, but he still resembles his old self at moments. The sweetest moment was when he remarked, “Jacob and Noah are my best friends.” I was relieved that he would recognize them when he finally saw them!”
I’m so proud of my dad @JohnForce_FC, he’s such a fighter. He has a ways to go, but he’s still his same old self at times. The sweetest thing was when he said “Jacob & Noah are my best friends”. I was overcome with relief he would recognize them when he finally got to see them!🥰 pic.twitter.com/MIdhHulNw4
— Ashley Force Hood (@ForceHood) July 8, 2024
Brittany Force expressed her profound gratitude to the fans and racing community who have stood by them since the accident in Richmond. She posted on Instagram:
“Thank you all for your continuous prayers for my father following his accident in Richmond. My family and I have seen an outpouring of encouraging comments and support over the last few weeks, and we are grateful to you all. It really means a lot to us.
“My father has made significant improvement here in Virginia, but he still has a long road ahead. The next step is to transfer him to a rehabilitation center.
“We are really fortunate to be a part of this incredible racing community. Nobody is tougher than my father, and I am confident that everyone’s support will help him get through the next stages of his recovery. “Thank you, everyone!”
From a medical standpoint, John Force’s recuperation poses major hurdles. After surviving the terrifying crash at speeds of up to 300 mph on June 23, which resulted in a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), John was hospitalized at VCU Medical Center for approximately 15 days in various levels of intensive care.
His transition from VCU Medical institution to a specialized neurological rehabilitation institution is a vital step in his recovery. John Force Racing has provided the most recent update with fans, stating:
“After 15 days in varying levels of intensive care at VCU Medical Center, drag racing champion John Force was released Tuesday in time to board an AirMed ambulance for a three-hour flight to a neurological rehab center, where he will continue to receive treatment for the Traumatic Brain Injury he sustained in a June 23 crash.
“The 16-time NHRA Funny Car Champion’s departure from the facility to which he was airlifted after crashing at over 300 mph was viewed by family members as a significant step forward in the healing process.
“However, medical staff warned that the path ahead remains arduous. Force is suffering with cognitive and behavioral symptoms from the TBI, and while he has been able to communicate with family and staff, spend time with grandchildren Jacob and Noah Hood, and celebrate a Monday birthday with daughter Brittany, he is still prone to spells of bewilderment.
“Family members said that no timetable had been established for the length of Force’s stay at the new facility which was selected because of its success in treating other race car drivers with similar issues.”
