Hmiel runs The Rock Jan. 26 |
Hmiel suffered critical head, back, and neck injuries in a USAC Silver Crown qualifying crash at
the Terre Haute Action Track on October 9, 2010 that left him paralyzed. Doctors initially told his family that
he had a 10-percent chance to live. He was not expected to walk or breathe on
his own again, and was not supposed to move his fingers, arms, toes or feet. The
former driver has defied all those predictions, however, regaining some
function in all his extremities, while continuing to use a wheelchair.
Now, Hmiel has
an opportunity to do something else few expected him to do; climbing back
behind the wheel of a race car at Rockingham Speedway.
"I can't
wait," said Hmiel this week. "I have had a lot of people in my corner
pulling for me since I got injured, and without the support and prayers from my
family, friends and fans, I wouldn't be where I am today on the road to
recovery. Having this opportunity to get back behind the wheel of a racecar
with Accessible Racing will allow me to show everyone their prayers haven't
gone unanswered and that anything is possible.”
Accessible Racing has offered dozens of disabled persons –
including many former members of the United States military – to experience the
freedom, hope and inspiration of driving an actual race car, providing
incentive for them to improve the quality of their lives and continue to reintegrate
into society. Hmiel is a prime example
of what the program is all about; providing a road map to recovery for newly
disabled persons to see, believe and achieve.
“I think
it is amazing what Accessible Racing stands for and what they do for our
wounded veterans and physically disabled,” said Hmiel. “It is very important
for me to continue to be an inspiration and give back to help people in my
position. I hope this event at Rockingham serves that purpose and opens the
eyes of other disabled people that they too can overcome their
challenges."
Accessible
Racing is the brainchild of Co-Founder and President Brian Hanaford, who
himself was the victim of a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) as a result of an
automobile accident. After years of recovery and emotional distress, Hanaford
used his family’s connections in stock car racing to obtain and modify a race car
to assist the physically challenged.
"Seeing
the look on disabled peoples’ faces when they took a ride in my racecar was a
life changing experience for me,” he explained. “I want to continue sharing what
has been a gift from God to me.”
The Accessible
Racing Driving Experience provides an exciting and therapeutic experience that
helps disabled individuals rediscover their capabilities, allowing individuals
to experience the excitement of competition and the thrill of victory;
preparing them to better face adversity and the challenges of living with a
disability.
As part of the Jan. 26 Rockingham Speedway event, Hmiel, media
members and other dignitaries will visit an area hospital to deliver the
message that life does not end after a traumatic head or spinal injury. To help make this special event
happen, visit http://tinyurl.com/cxq7wfy. Donations are being accepted now
through January 26. To find out more about Accessible Racing please visit
www.accessibleracing.com.
When the Godfather speaks people listen Thanks Dave, Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteThat's just great giving Shane this ride. He's already in a good place,and this will send him over the top!!
ReplyDeleteThat's a amazing story to start the new year
ReplyDeleteShane's story is among the most inspiring in all of motorsports.
ReplyDeleteHope to read more about him, Dave. Happy New Year!
cool
ReplyDeleteGreat story Dave! Hope to read a followup on Shane's drive soon! Happy New Year!
ReplyDeletegreat staff..nice to know that you are getting back on the road dude. i am sure you cant wait to finally drive a real car, if that time comes you can check out some great
ReplyDeletebestop accessories that will change your driving experience.
It is fantastic to get back on the road after all those injuries. I am psyched about the idea of Accessible Racing. I have to tell my uncle about it, he is a major racing enthusiast and a disabled Vietnam veteran.
ReplyDelete