602 Sportsman driver George Schweigart of Woodhull, N.Y., was airlifted to a nearby trauma center following a severe crash Saturday night at Bridgeport (N.J.) Raceway, according to updates shared by his family Sunday.
Schweigart sustained significant injuries in the incident, including head trauma accompanied by a brain bleed. He also sustained two broken ribs, a fracture beneath his eye, two fractures in his neck and another in his lower back.
A Sunday night update from his mother, Cathy, offered some encouraging developments as Schweigart continues treatment at Cooper University Hospital’s trauma center in New Jersey. Doctors determined that the fractures in his neck and lower back do not involve the spine — a positive sign early in his recovery.
“We will take that as a blessing!!!!” Cathy shared in a post on Facebook.
The frequent competitor of Bridgeport, New York’s Outlaw Speedway and Woodhull Raceway has remained heavily sedated since the accident, and his family has not yet been able to speak with him, though doctors may begin reducing sedation to evaluate his responsiveness.
Schweigart is being monitored for two brain bleeds, which doctors “aren’t overly concerned about,” as well as three bruises on his brain. The long-term effects of those injuries remain unclear.
He remains intubated and sedated, though doctors may begin reducing sedation to evaluate his responsiveness. Family members said he has shown limited reaction when sedation is eased but has not yet been able to follow commands, “like open your eyes, give a thumbs up.”
“But we are hopeful that comes with time!” Cathy wrote. “He will be there for awhile, but he is in a great place! … We are very pleased with the (doctors), specialists, nurses and staff! They are amazing!”
Cathy also shared that she’ll share more updates regarding George’s condition as they become available.
“We will keep updating as often as we can. Please know we appreciate all of you!” she wrote. “Wish we could respond to everyone’s well wishes individually, but there are 1000s daily! Just know we are so grateful for the support and love we are receiving!!!”
Editor’s note: Corrects Schweigart’s home state from New Jersey to New York.