Lindsey Vonn Awaits Further Surgery After Olympic Downhill Crash
Lindsey Vonn has announced she will undergo another surgical procedure on her broken left leg this Saturday at an Italian hospital. The American skiing icon expressed hope that this operation could allow her to potentially return home soon, marking a significant step in her recovery from a horrific crash during the Olympic downhill race at the Milan Cortina Games.
Vonn Shares Update on Instagram Following Hospital Stay
In a video message posted on Instagram on Friday, Vonn provided an update on her condition, thanking fans for their overwhelming support. "Hey guys, I just wanted to give you a little update and say thank you so much to everyone that has been sending me flowers and letters," she said. Vonn mentioned receiving numerous gifts, including stuffed animals and a shark pillow that she was using for comfort in the video. "It's just been so amazing and really helped me a lot," she added, highlighting the emotional boost during a difficult time.
Vonn described her hospital stay as "quite a hard few days," but noted she is starting to feel more like herself. However, she emphasized that her recovery journey is far from over. "I have a long, long way to go. Tomorrow I'll have another surgery and hopefully that goes well and then I can potentially leave and go back home, at which point I will need another surgery," she explained. The specifics of the upcoming procedures remain unclear until further medical imaging is conducted.
Details of the Crash and Previous Injuries
The 41-year-old skiing champion crashed just 13 seconds into her run during Sunday's race, necessitating an airlift off the course by helicopter. She later revealed she suffered a "complex tibia fracture that is currently stable but will require multiple surgeries to fix properly." This incident occurred only nine days after she ruptured the ACL in her left knee in another crash, compounding her challenges leading up to the Olympics.
Vonn's comeback to competitive skiing after nearly six years of retirement had been a focal point of the Games, making her crash all the more devastating for fans and the sports community. In her latest social media post, she mentioned being "very much immobile" but expressed gratitude for the support from friends and family who have been visiting her at the hospital in Treviso.
Vonn's Message of Gratitude and Optimism
Despite the setbacks, Vonn remains positive and thankful. "I feel very lucky and fortunate to have so many people around me that have really helped me get through this so I just wanted to say thank you and go Team USA," she said. She also cheered on her team, noting that watching their performances has lifted her spirits. "It's so great to watch and really lifted my spirits. Good job, team, and keep crushing it. I'll check in with you guys when I can."
In a written note accompanying her post, Vonn pointed out a bruise under her eye, adding humorously, "Almost gone though!" This minor detail underscores her resilience amidst a series of serious injuries. As she prepares for the next phase of her recovery, the skiing world watches with hope for her swift return to health.
