[Otto]

The 2022 HPDE season begins and for now I cannot participate

I was one of the many people to contract Covid over Christmas 2021

During a long recovery and quarantine, I developed a pulmonary embolism which put me in the hospital

To add insult, the procedure to remove this massive blood clot from my lungs resulted in a secondary embolism and internal bleeding in the right groin and leg

I was in hospital a week, followed by a week of very painful recovery at home

I am on maximum blood thinners for at least six months

The pain is no longer constant, but I find it hard to tolerate sitting or driving for long periods

Doctor’s will not tell me not to do HPDE, but they highly recommend I not do it for the six month period

It makes me very sad and depressed not to be out there with my PCA friends

My hope is that I can still participate at HPDE as a volunteer when I feel up to it

Until then, be safe, have fun, and learn something out at the track!

Otto

[HoodPin]

Hey Otto,
Let time do its healing thing, and when the time comes, you'll be back on track better than ever. Rushing it too soon will often only make the healing process take longer. Enjoy your quiet time with loved ones. And if you get really bored, consider investing in a iRacing or GranTurismo setup.

Wishing you well in your recovery, and look forward to seeing you soon.

[BlackTalon]

Damn Otto, sounds like you have been through the wringer. Keep recovering; you'll feelgood enough to drive at some point, but no need to rush it.

[cmartin]

x2 take care of yourself, the track will be there when you are ready

[Modian]

Sorry to hear that, Otto. That track will be there, take care of yourself and hope you get better soon!

[Patrick3000]

Otto, sorry to learn about your health issues. Godspeed on your continued recovery and we hope to see you back at the track very soon.

[Chopper Dropper]

Sorry to hear of your trials, could have been a lot worse and at least you are on the mend, take it easy and you can always come visit at Summit when up to it, help out if OK and head home whenever you want.
Dirk

[Dr K]

Otto,
I'll echo what Tony said. Take your time and heal. I had a 3-month and 6-month period of no driving (or skiing) starting last February until 2 weeks from now. It sucks. It passes.

[Shizzly]

I know everyone shares the same sentiment, we wish nothing but the best for you. I too hope you feel up to coming out and just hanging out in the paddock. That can be healing in and of itself.

Feel better Otto

[Hunter]

Otto-

I echo everyone's comments above, take your time then come back when able and you will appreciate it even more!