Dale Creasy, Jr. spoke via phone with friends and family shortly after his final surgery on Sunday. He remains in good spirits, despite being a long way from home.
"I can't say enough about the entire staff here at Royal Alex," he said. "They have really made this stay as pleasant as possible, but I'm ready to go home."
The down time has given the 2-time IHRA Funny Car Champion time to think and reflect. "I don't want anyone to have to go through what I did, but having gone through this, it really makes you aware of the special people around you every day. Craig and the entire Trackside Safety crew did a great job of getting me out of my car. Every race, every lap, they're right there waiting to put themselves on the line to help racers. How can you say thanks for that?"
While Creasy knows that drivers and fellow racers have always had a special bond, he found himself overwhelmed with the outpouring of support from fans and extended family.
"There are a lot of great drag racing fans that have said a lot of prayers on my behalf, I'm certainly thankful for that," Creasy said. "But people like Rob and Kim Reeves and sponsors like Darrel and Rod and the entire Jet Label staff, have gone way above the call of duty. They treated me and (wife) Laurie and (brother) Steve like family. I could never thank them enough for all they have done."
Creasy will continue his recovery in Edmonton for the next several days and is expected to return home sometime the week of July 21st.
Creasy is also planning to be in attendance for the Torco Race Fuels Northern Nationals, August 1-3 in Martin, Michigan.
"We won't be racing, but we'll have our truck and car there," Creasy said. "It's what we do. We're drag racers, it's my family and friends. I'll be there."
Comments (9)
Dale,
You are one really special person. I admire your courage and fortitude. You are in our hearts and prayers. Get well soon!
Donna
IHRA Membership
Posted by Donna Harper | July 15, 2008 7:26 AM
Dale, Just heard of your misfortune. My prayers are being said for a quick recovery. Love to you and Laurie!
Take care,
Carolyn and Jim
Posted by Carolyn Costello | July 15, 2008 10:21 AM
I've attended the events in Edmonton the past few years and always enjoy hanging around your team. Not only are you a class act but you've quickly become the fan favorite in Edmonton. Best of luck in your recovery and my prayers are with you. Go get 'em Dale!
Posted by Shayne Beeler | July 15, 2008 6:12 PM
Dale,
Sorry to hear about your mishap, if I can help in any way please let me know. Keep in mind I'm in Beecher and can lend a hand locally when your back home, even if you just need some one to BS with. Good luck and I will keep good thoughts for a quick recovery.
Jerry Vellender
Posted by Jerry Vellender | July 17, 2008 1:32 PM
Dale, Sorry to hear about your mishap, I've been a friend of Dale Sr. and your family for along time. Best of luck in your recovery and my prayers are with you and your family.
Ed Miller
Posted by Ed Miller | July 18, 2008 9:09 AM
dale-thank god your going to be ok and recover to battle another day every one at kingman ta and martin swanty cdje are all praying for you as we are there is some good to become of this-----now you will be known as the now and only ironman -----you will be back stronger than ever. get better quickly and well jeff and nina burchett ps say hey to doug for us later
Posted by jeff and nina burchett | July 19, 2008 2:59 PM
Dale, Brandy and I are pulling for you to get better soon. Take care.
Posted by Doug McCabe | July 20, 2008 8:46 AM
Hi Peanut,
I am just hearing of your accident and your injuries. I am so sorry to hear the news BUT very happy to be reading that you are making good progress in your recovery. I missed seeing you in Gainesville. I hope you are back on your feet and back at the track soon. I wish the best for you and your family.
Tracy. Tampa, FL
Posted by Tracy | July 20, 2008 11:20 PM
Dale, I spoke with Brian Brown today at work and he told me about the accident. Hope your recovery is rapid and goes well. I'm living in Schereville right now and if there's anything I can do for you or your family give me a call 708-362-0997. Get well buddy...
Gregg Hoover
Posted by Gregg Hoover | July 23, 2008 9:01 PM