NHRA Funny Car Driver Eric Medlen in Critical Condition

Tuesday, 20 March 2007
MEDLEN REMAINS IN CRITICAL CONDITION WITH CLOSED HEAD INJURY

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – NHRA Nitro Funny Car driver Eric Medlen, injured in a testing accident Monday at Gainesville Raceway, remained in critical condition Tuesday in intensive care at Shands at the University of Florida medical center.

According to Medlen’s father and Crewchief, John, doctors are continuing to work to reduce pressure and swelling from what has been characterized as a severe closed head injury suffered when the 33-year-old’s car crashed heavily into the opposing lane guardwall.
“We would ask everyone to keep Eric and his family in their prayers while at the same time respecting their need for privacy in this very difficult time,” said Kelly Antonelli, a spokesperson for John Force Racing, Inc.

“Obviously, our primary concern is for Eric’s health,” Antonelli said, “but we also are aware of erroneous information that has been posted on various internet sites and, unfortunately, that has been a source of additional pain for the family.
“To address that issue, we will continue to provide daily medical updates authorized by the family and the medical staff here at Shands."

UPDATE: 3/21/2007- Eric Medlin Undergoes 3 hour surgery to relieve pressure on his brain and will be in a drug induced coma for about 2 weeks. Full AP Story.

Updates can also be found at NHRA and at Drag Racing Magazine Online as well as John Force Racing.
Our prayers go out to the entire Medlen family and John Force Racing.
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