After four weeks, Maria Costello has published her first message on social networks. The British driver, who suffered a very serious accident on May 26 during the first qualifying session of the Sidecar category in the TT, has reviewed the situation. A moment very far from what should have been an edition of celebrations since, precisely, this year he celebrated his thirtieth anniversary competing on the Mountain Course. However, the situation is totally different and has completely changed your situation.
Costello had the accident at Brandish during the second lap. She was initially treated at Noble’s Hospital on the Isle of Man and was later transferred to Aintree where she continued to receive the necessary treatment. Now, as confirmed, he is at the Waltham Centre, where he continues under the care of surgeons, medical team, nurses and health personnel.
And the list of injuries has been extremely serious. In addition to paralysis from the T5/T6 vertebrae downwards, there are fractures in his back, a broken arm, multiple broken ribs, a broken sternum, a fractured nose and eye socket, facial injuries and a grade 4 liver laceration. Meanwhile, his co-pilot, Shaun Parker, who was also injured in the accident, continues with his own recovery.
Costello appreciates the support received during these weeks
In her message, Costello acknowledged the hardness of recent weeks and wanted to thank the work of those who cared for her after the fall. “The last four weeks have been the biggest challenge of my life and I know I’m lucky to be here. This is just the beginning of my new journey, but your support means everything.”
The pilot also addressed a few words to the medical staff who intervened from the first moment: “Words cannot express how grateful I am to those who treated me at the scene, and my immense gratitude goes to all the staff at Nobles, who later took me to Aintree.”
The message comes after his entourage launched a fundraiser to help cover the expenses derived from his recovery and any adaptations he may need in the future. At the time of publication of the latest information, the campaign had exceeded 267,000 pounds, with contributions coming from different parts of the racing world: “I am overwhelmed by it all and especially by the financial support. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to each and every one of you for donating.”Costello added.
Among the support initiatives was that of Kyle Ryde, double British Superbike champion, who helped raise nearly £21,000 by traveling to the BSB Knockhill test on a Honda Monkey 125. Other riders also participated on that route, including Josh Brookes.
Costello’s accident was one of several serious incidents recorded with sidecars during this year’s edition, a situation that ended up leading the organization to suspend the category for the rest of the event, and after which continuity in future editions will be assessed.
