Lindsey Vonn has openly discussed the challenging road to recovery she faces after a harrowing accident at the Winter Olympics. Despite sustaining an ACL injury just days prior, Vonn courageously competed in downhill skiing in Italy but suffered a serious fall that required her to be airlifted to a hospital.
Following multiple surgeries and a battle with compartment syndrome and a broken ankle, Vonn narrowly avoided amputation thanks to the efforts of Dr. Tom Hackett, who relieved pressure on her leg by performing a procedure to allow it to heal.
At 41 years old, Vonn is now confronted with significant physical hurdles to conquer in the upcoming months, along with the mental rehabilitation process that has already commenced.
In a recent post, Vonn shared, “Today was a tough day… my physical struggle began immediately after the injury, but the mental challenge started today. It’s a battle I’m familiar with as I’ve faced it many times. Each injury has taught me valuable lessons, making me stronger in different ways. However, the mental battle can be intense and relentless.”
Although back in the United States now, Vonn’s hospital stay was prolonged due to low hemoglobin levels from surgeries, leading to a necessary blood transfusion. Currently in a wheelchair due to a broken ankle, she remains optimistic about her recovery journey, planning to tackle rehabilitation one step at a time.