IRL: Schmidt's move to St. Louis goes smoothly
20 January 2000
Posted By Terry CallahanMotorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla.- Indy Racing League driver Sam Schmidt, paralyzed in a testing accident Jan. 6, was transferred Jan. 18 from Orlando Regional Medical Center to the Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine Spinal Cord Injury Program in St. Louis, Treadway Racing officials announced.
The Barnes-Jewish/Washington University program provides state-of-the-art medical, surgical, rehabilitative and long-term care for individuals with a spinal-cord injury. The program also is a leader in research and implementation of medical and surgical treatments for spinal-cord injuries.
Schmidt continues to suffer from paralysis from the clavicle down due to a spinal fracture suffered in the accident during the leagues Open Test at Walt Disney World Speedway. He is breathing with the aid of a respirator and is awake, alert and aware of his surroundings, Treadway Racing spokesperson Ruthie Culbertson said.
Neurosurgeon Dr. Phillip St. Louis used a pin and a bone graft to fuse Schmidts C-3 and C-4 vertebrae during surgery Jan. 6.
Schmidt was testing with other Indy Racing drivers in preparation for the season-opening Delphi Indy 200 at Walt Disney World Speedway on Jan. 29. Cards and letters can be sent to Schmidt at:
Sam Schmidt
c/o Ruthie Culbertson
Treadway Racing
6017 W. 71st St.
Indianapolis, IN 46278
Donations to CARA Charities, IRL Ministries or Speedway Childrens Charities in Schmidts name are encouraged in lieu of flowers and gifts. Donations should be sent to the above address.
More details about Schmidts condition will be provided when available.
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