Landracing Forum
Misc Forums => Health, Welfare, and Passings => Topic started by: Seldom Seen Slim on September 16, 2019, 10:50:29 AM
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I'm starting this separate topic so we have an easy to find location for information about Rob's journey back to racing health. Best wishes -- and let's get ready to send notes and cards. I'll get an address for us to use.
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wow SSS :-o you gave me a start there for a moment :-)
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update this morning from the Carbinite LSR page on Facebook @1hr ago.
(note: this is posted in the prior post -- but it is the latest info on Rob)
This post is from Sue, Rob?s wife.
I would first like to thank everyone for their prayers and well wishes. And very special thanks to the safety team, first responders, and the whole team at the hospital.
We all know the dangerous nature of this sport. Rob has always been obsessed with going fast. He has a brilliant mind and persevering nature. While the project never had my full blessing because of the risk of something like this happening, I could not force him to give up his dream either. The team did get it right when designing the car for safety. He would not be alive if the car didn?t do exactly what it was designed to do.
Right now, we are in a holding pattern of waiting. He does have a serious head injury. He is sedated, in ICU, with lots of tubes and monitors and frequent testing. He is on a breathing machine. He does respond to pain and his pupils are reacting. Some positives but he is definitely not out of the woods yet. We have a lot of questions that will take time to answer. God is sovereign and has this under control. More than anything, Rob desired to glorify God in his life. I don?t know why this happened this way, or what the outcome will be. Please continue to pray and we will update when possible.
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On the way out of town this morning I was in conversation with some racers that had some info on Lee Sicilio, and it seems he too is in need of our thoughts (I was told things relative to both the crash, and of his condition, but won't repeat them here as none of it was confirmed).
Slim - Perhaps you could start a thread for Sicilio/Daytona as you've done for Freyvogel/Carbiliner.
GW
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Prayers go out for Rob and his Family. Sorry to hear this as I was up in the hills on my way to Ely I heard on the radio they were coming to get back in line from a turnout. Must have been when they forgot to put the bottles for the shifter on. After that I lost radio reception.
Get better Rob we are pulling for you.
Tom G.
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Address:
Patient: Rob Freyvogel
U of U Medical Center
50 North Medical Drive
Salt Lake City Utah
84132
Same address for Lee Sicilio, by the way.
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Here's a Pennsylvania address for Rob. Use it, please, so the house/family doesn't get overwhelmed by cards sent to the house. Thank you.
Carbinite Metal Coatings
463 Brownsdale Road
Renfrew PA
16053
In the meantime - send to the hospital, too!!
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Thanks to everyone involved in keeping us informed!!
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I am praying for Robs full and complete recovery. Also for all of his friends and family.
Rob has been a good friend and mentor to me and I would not have had the courage to
compete at Bonneville without his encouragement and advice.
Dave Gray
# 3611
BGMS
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I found this cool pic of Rob on Liz Leggitt's Facebook page and grabbed it. Thank you very much, Liz. I hope you don't mind but since I figure not all of the folks on this Forum know Rob personally -- a pic of him sounded just right, and yours fit the bill perfectly.
(https://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii147/SeldomSeenSlim/Screen%20Shot%202019-09-17%20at%209.31.02%20PM_zpsovpsparn.png) (http://s263.photobucket.com/user/SeldomSeenSlim/media/Screen%20Shot%202019-09-17%20at%209.31.02%20PM_zpsovpsparn.png.html)
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Carbinite LSR;
I am absolutely overwhelmed by the outpouring of support in this time of greatest need. I?m not much of a social media person, but the power of this platform is obvious in the number of comments, likes, and messages that we are seeing. People around the world praying, sending well wishes, and sharing memories of Rob. Words cannot express my deepest gratitude for each and every one of you.
This is a picture of Rob when we were at Bird Kingdom in Ontario. It was a trip that he planned, and he did a good job of choosing activities that I would like. He wasn?t always good at that, but he tried and I love him for it.
There is not much to update medically. He has moved from the surgical intensive care to the neuro intensive care unit. The SICU care was superb, and so is the care he is receiving here. This unit deals with head and brain trauma specifically. He is stable, still on a ventilator, and is responding to pain. He now has a feeding tube and his brain is being monitored with an EEG. His care is being optimized to allow healing of his brain. We've heard that this is a marathon, not a sprint many times now! He needs time.
There is video of the crash out there. It must be horrific. While it is good for safety experts to analyze the video so no other families have to go through this, it is not good for anyone in Rob?s family to see what happened to him. I appreciate that it has not been posted online, thank you.
This morning, I woke early in a very fearful state. So many decisions to make, so much waiting, being separated from family and home and pets and work. God spoke to me and said that I cannot live in the realm of ?what if? ? that is irrelevant to this situation. I have to live in ?what is? and trust Him for ?what will be?. He already has this figured out.
Our Carbinite Metal Coatings family is just outstanding. Andy and I are out here in SLC with zero concern for our company. It is in such good hands.
With sincerest gratitude,
Sue, our family, and all of the folks at Carbinite and Carbinite LSR.
(https://scontent-msp1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/70680429_2003288996439351_917524259897606144_o.jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_oc=AQnd9lLBIivaIQ7HAvu7Vqzh-FQjmDAT8Ia-uUp4XevRnzz9S6qz-kPMtUCCP4OXH1M&_nc_ht=scontent-msp1-1.xx&oh=7029f612a899f6605cb2f58f9aed691c&oe=5DFE6CA0)
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We left Wendover for SLC on Sunday morning and a number of miles east on I-80 we were still able to hear the track radio on 1610 AM. Ron said that the Carbiliner was at the line and took off down the course, sounding very good. The speeds were reported (I think I heard "432" but the radio reception was getting poor) and then "an incident on the course". At first we were not sure if it was Rob or someone else running on the short course. Soon it was clear that it was Rob.
On Sunday I had stopped by the Carbiliner pit to say hello and Rob asked me how things were going. We talked about the problem I had in tech getting low enough in the cockpit to get completely under the cage tubes and Rob offered me his spare helmet. We tried it but our problem wasn't resolved so I returned it with thanks.
A few years ago Rob invited me to bring my car up to "Area 52" where he and his team were going to make some test runs on that dry lake. My car was not finished enough to bring but I did drive up and had an opportunity to get to know Rob and his Carbiliner team. They are really fine people. My wife Joline and I pray for Rob's recovery and for Sue and his team.
Regards, Neil Tucson, AZ
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What a class act! I was visiting Tim Cox yesterday and he could not get over the number of people htat must have sat in that car in the last few years!! We all hope you get well soon friend! I hope you are well enough to have visitors in October in Pa.
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We were pitted right next to the Carbiliner crew during WOS. A great group of guys. They kept coming over and asking how our Rookie driver was doing. It is very ironic that on Sunday we were one car back in the left staging lane as the Carbiliner as pushing off. The last picture on my camera was of them leaving the line on that fateful run.
I have prayed a lot the last few days for Rob's full recovery. I have also prayed for peace, comfort and understanding for Sue, their family, friends and Crew. God is with Rob and He is the ultimate Healer!
GODSPEED Rob!
Tom
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Carbinite LSR:
Rob and I were big X-files fans back in the late 90?s. ?Trust No One? has been my mantra, trust is very difficult for me. So being asked to trust a lot of people I don?t know with my husband?s life is terrifying. I woke early again, feeling very fearful. This made me realize that my journey to trust (people and God) instead of fear is going to be a marathon, just like Rob?s journey to recovery will be a marathon.
We have more support here from PA. Rob?s mom and sister arrived safely earlier today.
This is day 4 after Rob?s accident. The brain swelling is peaking. He still has reflexive movements in his arms and legs, is responding to pain, and his pupils react. But it would not be unusual for him to backslide a little neurologically. He is being closely monitored.
A small victory yesterday! His ventilator settings were changed to allow him to initiate breathing on his own. He tolerated this for almost two hours. Weaning from the vent can take time.
His cranial pressure has been good. His vital signs are stable. He had a CT scan today, but the results are not in yet. He is still not responding to verbal commands.
He will have a big day tomorrow. Assuming this can all be scheduled, he will go to the OR for a tracheostomy. He cannot keep the breathing tube in indefinitely, so it?s better to do this now rather than later. He will also get a more permanent feeding tube. They want to remove the O2 sensor and take him for an MRI.
Rob?s family, the Carbinite crew, and the LSR crew all appreciate your support and well wishes. We?ve been reading every comment and have been so encouraged. Thank you, we love all of you. Stepping out in faith and trust to run this marathon! Enjoy this morning view from our host's deck.
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4 of us went to the Hospital tonight to visit with Rob's wife, family and friends. He has an amazing support network. Some of our local club members are providing places for them to stay, food and transportation. We will offer what help we can to make it as trouble free as possible for them. The family is amazed at the support , prayers and well wishes from the LSR community. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
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Thank you USFRA
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Monte it is so gratifying to hear of the out pouring of support you USFRA members and their family members are extending to the extended Carbiliners!!! Keep on keepin' on!!
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To Rob's family and friend's... Stay strong and keep the faith. We have a lot of folk's in the LSR and other Racing Communities all praying for Rob's quick recovery. And to Monte and the USFRA, what can I say...God Bless.
Bob Drury
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4 of us went to the Hospital tonight to visit with Rob's wife, family and friends. He has an amazing support network. Some of our local club members are providing places for them to stay, food and transportation. We will offer what help we can to make it as trouble free as possible for them. The family is amazed at the support , prayers and well wishes from the LSR community. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Monte,
As a USFRA member can I contribute some money to our members who are helping Robs family members out? If so where would I be able to send the money?
Thanks,
Tom G.
Get better Rob, more prayers sent.
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In my opinion, any donations would best be given to both Rob and Lee. Their medical bills are going to be very costly.
I will see what can be done to set something up for those wishing to donate. The local club members are happy to donate their time and whatever else they can.
I will get back to all, once I check into this.
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You can also donate to the Utah Motorsports Foundation. They collect donations year round and distribute some $$ to race drivers and families after serious crashes. I don't know if you can designate where your donation will go - You might consider asking them (The Nish family is my conduit to the UMF - ask them for details).
Ditto, by the way, the El Mirage Ladies Auxiliary. I know personally - both of these fine groups surprised the dickens out of us when Nancy crashed a few years ago at Bonneville. I barely knew they existed - they each gave us some funds. Thank you once again.
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Jon, you are absolutely correct. Both of those are already set up to help. And in fact, Lee mentioned that he had heard from the El Mirage Ladies group.
That will be the way to help with donations.
I have to say, I am proud to be a part of the land racing community. Everyone is willing to jump in and help at all times, good and bad. This is a very special group of people.
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Nice job Monte, as usual, you and the USFRA team are on it! You guys did an amazing job again this year at WOS. And I'm sure that the families that you guys have supported and helped at this time of crisis are very deeply thankful to you folks who care so much for the racers and fans. We couldn't do it without you guys, so a big THANK-YOU to all involved! Of course ,it goes without saying that our thoughts and prayers are with Rob and Lee and their families for a full ,complete recovery! Each and every one of us who put on our gear are at similar risk , and it's a comfort to know that our 'family' of racers always have our back! Again , thank you guys & gals so much for your hard work and caring! :cheers:
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Here's today's Facebook post from Sue Freyvogel:
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Carbinite LSR:
Saturday morning update:
Very rough night. Rob vomited a number of times. That put the MRI on hold since you have to lie flat. We could not risk him vomiting while in there. Surgeons have been asked to evaluate.
I stayed with him last night and did not sleep much. So this will be a short post this morning. And will post more once we know anything.
With much gratitude,
Sue and family
(https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/70767039_2008824345885816_1405907662595424256_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&_nc_oc=AQl7aDZhh_qb8QuYMqKlFFpS5NI5C-mk6Ys2EMbekoDpQLeP3H6PrkP8VLOsjN-Sl-w&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=806b2a24aa30288faf61492b3ca10fae&oe=5E3D03F7)
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Rob & Sue Linda and I are thinking of you, all of we LSR racers are thinking and asking each other have we heard and new developments---You are at the forefront of our thoughts and prayers!! Sparky and Linda Phoenix
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This is from Sue Freyvogel about 11PM Eastern time Sunday.
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My friend Roger said he knew of Rob's wreck by seeing a picture of the CARBILINER on a trailer. Who ever posted it must have taken it down as he could no longer find it. He said it was BADLY WRECKED.
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https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-freyvogels
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Theres a go fund me page underway on facebook many of us have donated what we could to help out. As of today the total is $25,000
The hopes are to reach $50,000 so Rob can be taken back to PA the air fare for the trip is enormous.
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Here's an update:
https://www.deseret.com/2019/9/29/20889027/driver-who-crashed-doing-over-400-mph-at-salt-flats-still-in-coma
Jeff in Boise
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Posted on their FB page:
Carbinite LSR
September 29 at 8:07 PM
Rob is continuing to heal and is now completely off the ventilator and breathing on his own. Wanted to share this pic taken Sunday as we were waiting in line to run just before the crash. With me is (Stephen) a First Robotics team member and his mom that came up from Texas to check out the innovation and try to get some direction as he heads to college. The 2 guys on the right are "strays" from Georgia we picked up last year. This is a typical day around Rob and the car. The official team motto is, "To serve, to learn, to inspire" I can't even begin to count the number of students and adults alike that Rob, through this car, has inspired. Rob has taken the car to dozens of schools and events to show just what can be accomplished through hard work, ingenuity and using the gifts and passions God has given you. We have truly been blessed with the friendships developed along the way. Our prayer from the beginning was that God would use this car to inspire others and show Himself to those who were watching. We did not anticipate these circumstances, but God is definitely answering our prayer, and I know that will make Rob smile soon. Andy for the team.
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Today's post from the Carbiliner FB page:
Marathons are a mystery to me! I?ve never trained for one, or even watched one. What I imagine is that, after the initial rush at the starting line, the participants settle into a groove of running, walking, or wheeling a chair. Eyes are still ahead, planning for the end of the run, completely alert to changes in the terrain that could cause be dangerous.
We had been in that groove with Rob?s progress, then he developed the blood clot. Now we are back into the groove. His IV blood thinner level is therapeutic so we are letting that medication do its job. He is still being monitored closely, we are still working to get him home, and we continue to keep him grounded by communicating with him. His body continues to heal, he is still getting nutritional support and physical therapy, and we are providing the conditions he needs for his brain to heal.
Our communications will start decreasing now since there really is not much to report. Rather than daily, we will update every other day. Not because we want to hide anything, there just isn?t much to say! Certainly if there is anything to report, we will post.
Grateful for each of you, and for your support,
Sue and Family
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Sue posted this last night:
I had traveled back to PA this past weekend to spend some time with our children, pets, and Carbinite family. It was a refreshing time at home, very relaxing and much needed. Andy stayed with Rob, and for that I am very grateful!
I had hoped to return to SLC and have some great things to report to everyone. But we are still in the holding pattern. Rob did have his eyes open for a decent amount of time today when I was talking with him. But no other progress on waking up. Nothing else to report about Rob's medical status.
We are continuing to work on finding a facility around Pittsburgh. Hoping we will have some solid news on that front tomorrow. If there is anything to share, I will post!
Many thanks to everyone around the world for your support and encouragement!
Sue and Family
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Here's some encouraging news about Rob Freyvogel. This is Sue's update from last night:
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That is great news! Rob and Sue are in Joline's and my prayers.
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What great news Rob is going to be me to PA :cheers:
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Sue's Sunday afternoon post:
Here's a flashback photo by Liz Leggett Papp from SpeedWeek 2014, which was rained out. The team traveled the 1961 miles west only to have their plans foiled by the weather. That whole thing about "the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry" is so true way more often than most of us would like!
Which is the case with our trip back to PA. We have known that Rob has some fluid near the front of his skull. The doctors have been watching it, and ordered another CT scan before sending us on our journey home. In order to make sure that Rob has the best chance for recovery, the decision was made to keep him in Utah to deal with the fluid by placing a drain.
I completely understand the importance of this, and definitely want to make sure Rob is set-up for recovery. A bit disappointing, but I trust Rob's doctor when he says that this is a good course of action. The surgery will be sometime Monday. He should go back to the ICU for a day or so, and will need a few days for recovery.
He's had his eyes open more today than I've seen. The Formula 1 race is on the TV now. He hasn't taken the time to sit and watch a race for years. Hopefully, he is enjoying this!
Many thanks to our friends from around the world!
Sue and Family
I didn't attach the pic - a shot of the 496 car in front if the hangar at Wendover Airfield.
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(https://scontent-msp1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/72317389_2049391065162477_2236476306675990528_o.jpg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_eui2=AeGF82ojPDYQADa3vj6rdTAQyilJo-tusGOx-inXUH1A0HPMM3Ie0TwPOI072PGkQA3d8nKK726B0iVsfXinWrPe_u5mLwpKnk_eRe8uNEnB2Q&_nc_oc=AQkgV14nuDIPJa6XCdQ07BVlzXQi9TpzY5fvHRK46DpT5DK6gCaK7DrtGutpxU4Ki7I&_nc_ht=scontent-msp1-1.xx&oh=dea431d6376d7937f89de3632c78eb36&oe=5E2BCCE8)
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The total collected on GoFundMe to date is $35,275.
Just a reminder that Sue Freyvogel and Rob can use anything you can spare. He is still in the hospital in Salt Lake City but if things go as planned he will be flown back to PA on a medical "air ambulance" flight. Rob is in for a long recovery from his head injury.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-freyvogels
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Here's the newest post from Sue Freyvogel:
I was searching the YouTube archives for something to post today, and thought some of you may enjoy this video from Century of Speed. I believe from January 2014. My apologies, I do not know who produced the video so I cannot credit them. It was not Carbinite LSR. Feel free to add the producer to the comments if you know, I like to give credit where credit is due! It?s a bit on the longer side and does show a few other cars that were at this event.
Late last evening, the wintery weather hit the area of Salt Lake City where I went to get out of the hospital for a while. That slushy rain-snow mix was falling, and the cold was chilling to the bone. I felt for the folks that were at the college football game! The weather is not much better at home, which is okay since we aren?t quite ready to transfer there anyway.
Rob had a head CT on Friday to check if the drains placed last Monday had done their job. The doctors were pleased with the results and clamped the drains. He will need another head CT, probably tomorrow, to see if the fluid is accumulating again. Then next steps will be decided after seeing that CT. Temperature is back down to normal with the addition of antibiotics to his treatment regime.
Still opening his eyes a good deal of the time. Not moving his arms yet. We have seen more movements of his legs, particularly the right leg. Primarily reflex movements, but we have noticed a few times that he SEEMS to be moving the right leg on command. Not enough to say with absolute certainty, but I will take it!
The prayers from around the world are moving this mountain! Slowly we are seeing progress, and each little step forward keeps my hopes up. The steps back can be expected, and I have been praying for patience and courage for all of us that are involved in Rob?s journey as we experience the ups and downs. God has been providing all that I need on a daily basis ? sometimes minute by minute. For that, and for each of you, I am thankful.
Sue and Family
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYsi44KExBk&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR23biSmF4HbnHDmgvFo7DcYMjuHgt3eCt6XGKV0ei9dVzuDydmODF3YpRk
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Thanks Sue. We're praying.
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Linda and I were in New Castle Pa Thursday through Sat for a mine family reunion I had several family members ask about Rob who lives right down the road!! They knew we both raced on the Salt!!
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According to a post on their Facebook page from 16 hours ago, they made the flight back to PA with Rob. Hope he continues to improve - but even more rapidly! I'm sure Sue is glad to finally be back home.
Jeff in Boise
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Here's the post from Sue et al:
Quick update! Rob?s trach was removed on Sunday and the site is healing nicely. The blood thinner is now regulated. So we were given the go ahead for transfer. God is good!
With a storm approaching, and since the medical flight team was close to Salt Lake, we flew this morning in this private jet. For a number of reasons, I decided that our home would be the best place to start the next phase of our journey. Friends and family worked for over a week to prepare the rooms, and they did a fantastic job. We arrived at our house in PA around 5:30pm. The ground ambulance transportation in Utah and PA were fantastic, and the flight team was superb. All went very smoothly.
For those of you that are local, we are anxious to see you. But need some time to readjust after 66 days in Utah. Please, no unscheduled visitation. When we are ready, we will post a visitation sign-up so Rob is not overwhelmed.
Many thanks and blessings to our friends and family around the world, many who may never see this since they are not on Facebook. We appreciate all of you so much!
Sue and Family
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Here is the latest post by Sue of how Rob is doing.
Tom G.
Carbinite LSR
November 29 at 8:54 PM ?
A belated Happy Thanksgiving to all! One of Rob?s favorite praise songs is ?Bless the Lord, Oh My Soul.? This particular part has resonated with me over the past few days as I contemplate the many reasons I have to be thankful:
For all Your goodness
I will keep on singing
Ten thousand reasons
For my heart to find
Not sure I am imaginative enough to come up with 10,000 reasons, but my list is quite long nonetheless! We received this lovely flower basket today from a fellow racer and his crew. It, along with a cozy fire in the fireplace, is cheering up our home-hospital room. The Carbiliner picture was taken by Liz Leggett Papp in 2016. It?s not one we use frequently in our posts and publications, but I like the unique perspective!
It has been a little over a week since Rob and I returned to Pennsylvania. We had a few panicked looks in Utah when I explained to the medical staff that we would be taking Rob to our home. They had no idea of my nursing background, which includes ICU, surgical, and home care experience. We are managing remarkably well and have a lot of support and offers of help. And there really is no-place-like-home when it comes to recovery!
Rob has been evaluated by home care nurses, a variety of therapists, and his PCP. Andy and I took him to his neurosurgery appointment at UPMC. It was an uneventful trip! He will begin in-home PT, OT, and Speech Therapy next week. Family will be pitching in so I can get back to work at Carbinite.
The Pgh neurosurgeon described Rob as ?emerging into consciousness? ? I think it is a very good description. Our family has been asked ?Is he awake?? by a number of people. Well? Yes. In the strictest sense of the word. He is not asleep. But he is not fully conscious. He is becoming more aware of his surroundings. His legs and right arm continue to improve. He has started moving the left arm very slightly. It seems like he wants to communicate but is unable to form words, although he does groan and make some sounds. He relies on me for all of his care right now. Sadly for him, his Thanksgiving dinner consisted of tube feeding while the rest of us enjoyed turkey with all the fixings.
He needs more time to heal from the surgeries in Utah, more time to rest so his brain and body can recover, and more time to gain strength and function. The goal is to get him into intensive TBI rehab when he is ready. Until then, my assignment from both of his doctors is to keep him healthy, avoid infections, avoid bedsores, and provide an appropriate balance of rest and stimulation. When he is ready for visitors, we will let you know. With cold/flu season upon us, we have to be overly cautious. An infection could be devastating.
Please continue to uphold Rob in your thoughts and prayers. Abba, Father has been truly good to our family. I am thankful for His goodness, and for each person that has cared for us in so many ways through this trial.
Sue and Family
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Thanks for the update. God Bless you Rob.🙏🙏🙏✝✝✝✝
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Thank you for the up date, rest and pray.
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Here's a note from Sue from a couple of days ago - on the Carbinite LSR Facebook page. And speaking of Rob and his family - I've asked for the mailing address Sue prefers us to use to send cards and stuff. I remember her asking, a few months ago, to not send to the house because they were getting way too much there. I'll post the preferred addy once I get it, but have a card ready to send for the holidays, you hear me? Here's Sue's note:
"Carbinite LSR
December 14 at 8:29 PM ?
Greetings to our friends around the globe!
Rob and I been home a little over 3 weeks now. While we have a number of challenges to overcome on a daily basis, we are managing fairly well. We now have a competent and compassionate caregiver coming in several days a week so I can work, which is very good for me. Visiting nurses, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are working with him as well.
Rob?s cognition is improving significantly. He is becoming more aware of his surroundings and is starting to interact with people. He wants to communicate and is clearly frustrated with how difficult it is for him right now. He is shaking his head ?yes? or ?no? when asked questions, can identify some family and friends in pictures, and is starting to form words. Physically he is still quite weak, especially his left arm. His physical recovery is part of this marathon as well as his cognitive/mental recovery, and I would expect him to become stronger with time and continued therapy.
Many thanks for all you have done for us, and many blessings to each of you during this holiday season!
Sue and Family"
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Sue I think of him everyday and say a prayer. Rob and I had a conversation at inspection and updated me on the changes made. I was announcing his run and it was so difficult to say what happened and not knowing his condition. Only best thoughts.
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Sue I think of him everyday and say a prayer. Rob and I had a conversation at inspection and updated me on the changes made. I was announcing his run and it was so difficult to say what happened and not knowing his condition. Only best thoughts.
Glen, Joline and I were heading back home on I-80, listening to you on the radio when you announced that Rob was pulling up to the start line. His engine sounded great as he pulled away and we heard your announcing speeds as he progressed through the traps. The last thing I heard was "432 mph" just past the 2 mile and then it happened. Shortly after that the AM signal faded away and we did not know the outcome until much later.
We are glad to hear that Rob is making progress in his recovery.
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The best Christmas present is progress on the road to recovery.
Well wishes to Rob and Sue and the complete Carbiliner family. Many here keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
The road is long, and the way is dark. May you emerge in sunshine at the end of your journey.
Fordboy & Mrs Fordboy
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Well said. Well said :cheers:
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Here's the latest from Sue as posted yesterday on the Carbinite LSR Facebook page:
Greetings, friends!
We enjoyed a quiet Christmas at home with just our immediate family. It was a welcome repose from the chaos that has invaded our lives since Rob?s accident in September. Hard to believe that it has been 105 days since I received that fateful phone call. Up to this point, not hearing from me has meant that nothing new has happened with Rob. Something new is now happening just about every day, I just do not have much extra time to compose proper posts!
Since we have been home, Rob has made significant progress. In the past week alone, he has started to speak in complete sentences. Speech therapy is working with him twice a week. He is still very frustrated, more at us now since we can understand only a fraction of his words. With each passing day, though, his speech becomes a little clearer. His trach site is not yet completely healed which adds to the difficulty in understanding him.
The family was enjoying some pizza and conversation this weekend, and he began yelling out of frustration. When we said he needed to behave, he said ? very clearly ? ?I do not want to behave, I want to eat food!? He is still far from having pizza but has enjoyed a couple of popsicles! He laughed for the first time today at something our daughter said. He is starting to ask questions about many things, and said he wants to go back to work.
A big part of his frustration is his inability to walk. He is spending a good deal of time out of bed in his wheelchair and does not like being belted in at all. He is strong enough that he could throw himself out of bed or the chair, so he cannot ever be left alone. But he is not strong enough yet to support himself. Part of ?emerging into consciousness? is that he realizes what he used to do and cannot understand why he is not able to do those same things now. Patience never was one of his strengths... With the help of Occupational Therapy, he has started using a standing frame. He is only tolerating the frame for short periods of time. Considering he had been in bed for 3 months he is doing amazingly well. Walking will come, he just does not want to wait.
Each of you have been part of Rob?s recovery through your prayers, well-wishes, donations, medical care, home renovations, meals, and help. The Go-Fund-Me has paid for the medical equipment, medications, supplements, and therapies that are helping him to regain his life. I recently read the discharge summary from his hospital stay in Utah. Based on the notes from his admission, Rob should not even be alive ? but yet he is here complaining about not being able to eat pizza! Your prayers and support have sustained all of us through the chaos. Thank you again, each of you here on Facebook and all the supporters that are not on social media, for all you have done. Have a wonderful, blessed, Happy New Year! All glory to God for Rob's continued progress!
Sue and Family
Very encouraging news indeed!
Jeff in Boise
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Thanks Jeff for posting Sue's post on Facebook. Things are looking up and what a great way to start the New Year. Glad to hear you are getting better Rob.
Tom G.
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Best Christmas present I have ever gotten!
ROB keep on keeping on!
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What a wonderful Christmas, New Years present for all of us. Thank you for posting Robs progress.
It does prove that prayers are a very powerful medicine.
Dave and Diana Gray
Mechanicsburg, Pa.
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I'm with Sparky.
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Latest post is from Andy and very encouraging. Rob is getting better. Great news.
Tom G.
Carbinite LSR
January 21 at 11:13 AM ?
Andy here, just wanting to let everyone know what Rob is up to! He has been admitted to a full time rehab program where he will be getting therapy 6 days a week for the next 3 or 4 weeks. He is at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh. He was admitted because he is ready for it! He is fully aware of what has happened and is physically able to start learning to function again. He is able to talk, though with difficulty due to the brain injury and damage to his trachea, but continues to improve. He needs to re-learn swallowing, walking and any other movement you can think of. This is great news as he continues to make improvements, but he is also fully understanding for the first time how far he has to go to recover. Patience and emotional stability were never Rob's strong points, so this is a struggle for him. I visited yesterday as he was in a very low place. Another friend showed up as well and he read Psalm 13. "How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?" King David was in a low place as well, but by the end of that Psalm he sees a different perspective, understanding that he can trust God in the midst of the darkest valleys. The name "Israel" was given to Jacob because he "wrestled with God". That is literally what Israel means. We have a God who wants us to wrestle with Him. Ask Him the tough questions when we are down and can't see how we can get through our current situations. He is there waiting for us to come to Him, as our only true hope lies in realizing we are hopeless without Christ. Thank you for your continued prayers for both Rob and Sue as they navigate this together. There is light on the horizon, but there are still some storms to get through.
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That is good news.
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Rob we are with you as you start on this journey to reprogram yourself, we will say prayers we will remember what a truly nice committed person you are, we will think of and be thankful for your surviving and just getting opportunity to fight this battle My buddy Courtney had a similar head injury and he had to watch it; more that 2 light beers and this is what would happen at the stoplight muutt yeppers he was the worlds cheapest drunk
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Thanks for the update. God Bless you Rob. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
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Good to hear Rob is in the rehab and recovery stage. We are praying for as speedy a recovery as possible but more importantly a full recovery.
BR
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I'll echo Bill's message. I couldn't have put it any better. My best wishes to Sue and the rest of the family and team.
Pete
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From Carbinite via Brandon Barnhart and Jonathon Stein all on Facebook:
"Carbinite LSR
50 mins (ago) ?
We want to thank all of you for not pestering us with questions about what happened and respecting our time to deal with the important matters since the accident. It has definitely been a roller coaster since the crash in September, but we are finally ready to share a few details. There was one video, from a phone at a distance, that has given us the most insight. Just before Rob loses control, he passed between 2 quarter mile flags in 2 seconds, so his speed was probably approaching 450 mph. The severity of the crash did not allow us to retrieve any data or video from the car itself. It seems that the cause of the accident was a left rear blown tire. After the tire blew, the car pulled to the left. Once the car was sideways the air lifted the car, coming down nose first and then tumbling. The majority of the car disintegrated and left debris over a mile. The cage however, was completely intact and hardly even bent, preserving Rob?s life. His body barely had a scratch, but if you have been following the posts you understand the seriousness of the brain injury caused from the force associated with crashing at that speed. Goodyear thoroughly investigated and determined the tire did not blow due to centrifugal failure, side load failure or overheating. What is left of the wheel wells does not show signs of over expansion when comparing the 2 sides. There is not enough of the cap left to determine exactly what caused the tire to blow, but most likely we hit some type of debris on the salt. We say that not to blame anyone, as we understood the risks involved, but want to help make racing on the salt as safe as possible in the future. The USFRA, first responders and the entire racing community were amazing immediately following the crash and have continued to show incredible support to Rob, Sue and our team. Rob continues his rehab, and while very frustrated at times, he continues to make progress as he learns how to talk, walk and do all the things he remembers and desires to do again. He does not remember the crash, but the rest of his memory is pretty much fully restored. He is still in a full time brain injury rehab program in Pittsburgh, working on speech, physical and occupational therapy."
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Iv'e gotten to know Rob pretty well and feel that he is probably very upset knowing his car is destroyed and his LSRing career is over. He called me a couple days before his fateful trip and excitedly told me about getting off the dyno with 1000 more HP as a result of his new turbos. He had every expectation of going at least 450 if not close to the 500#. I believe he would have eventually done it. George
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Thanks for the update. The last number I heard on the radio was "432" and Rob was still accelerating hard. The most important thing is that Rob is recovering.
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I am very encouraged by Robs progress. Our prayers have been answered to this point.
More prayer will be needed.
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Brandon do you recall the width of the rear wheels?
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Here is the latest post by Sue on how Rob is doing. Keep up the good work Rob.
Tom G.
Carbinite LSR
February 17 at 6:32 AM ?
Hello friends!
I thought you might enjoy a picture of Rob in an environment that isn't covered in salt! My apologies for you not hearing directly from me while. Andy has been such a blessing to me and has taken over much of the task of updating everyone about Rob. My days are full and exhausting, leaving me little time for things that are important but not urgent.
As Andy said, thanks to everyone for being patient and respectful as we work through all of the details and obstacles surrounding Rob's recovery, including the cause of the accident. It has been a difficult and often painful process. Some of the close family and friends that have been able to visit posted observations about their visits. These are so encouraging for me to read. As I am sure you all realize, there is a lot that our family deals with on a daily basis that is not posted for privacy reasons, especially sensitive medical information. Andy and I are the only people that would share actual medical information as it is appropriate. We want to update you periodically because your support and prayers have helped to bring Rob to where he is today. I cannot express how appreciative I am for all of you.
Rob is in intensive brain injury rehab. He is getting therapies for many hours each day, and it is very tiring. While he is making progress, he is still very weak. An infection could cause his progress to stall, cause regression, or worse. The intensive therapies tire him, and he needs a lot of rest. Constant stimulation is not good for his brain either. The amazing rehab staff have rules in place for the benefit of all the patients on the rehab unit. We have been truly blessed with excellent medical care both at home and in Utah.
Rob has touched many people's lives, and in return many people want to see him. I understand that completely. I read your comments to him and remind him that he has people all over the world that are watching his progress, praying for his complete recovery, and continue to be touched by him ? just in a very different way. This really is a marathon and we are not even halfway to the finish. Every decision I make is with his recovery in mind, and not all decisions will be popular. One unpopular decision is that I have to limit visitors and ask that people do not pop-in unscheduled or ask for special visitation. Please understand I am not trying to be difficult, and I am certainly not unappreciative of everything that you have done for us. I am simply trying to clear the path for Rob to make as complete a recovery as possible.
Thank you,
Sue and family
https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/p720x720/86268076_2297142763720638_4269101070208204800_o.jpg?_nc_cat=109&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_oc=AQklnWd4qd0hJXsQqgfjjIHVCar7j-CAv5NApBEFo-1c17nSGmQo-CObZUhw7YS-pa0&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.xx&_nc_tp=6&oh=ced23fe958368298761b6ff3405cacc4&oe=5E965243
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Sue, We are happy for you, your family and Rob that your love provides the mental toughness to make the hard decisions--- best wishes and prayers your way!!
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Great news from Andy. Rob is at home now. Keep up the good work Rob.
Tom G.
Carbinite LSR
March 21 at 7:48 AM ?
From Andy: Despite the craziness in the world around us, Rob is continuing to progress. He is out of full time rehab and at home. He will continue to do out-patient rehab as long as they stay open. So far so good! He is working on walking, smiles and laughs a lot (including laughing at himself), and contributes his thoughts on whatever is on his mind. He is still limited to eating thickened and pureed foods so still has a tube feed to make sure he gets all of his nutrients and hydration. Still much to work on to get back to his old self, but moving the right direction. The pandemic that is gripping the world obviously is on everyone's mind, and ours as well. The following video was shared with me recently. One of the great minds of the 20th century, CS Lewis, wrote a pamphlet in the midst of the fears of the world ending due to atomic war. If you replace "Atomic Age" with COVID-19, it speaks volumes for our situation today. And the illustrations make it fun! Take 15 minutes of your time (as you may have extra right now) and enjoy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
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maybe this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FxYyGcLGQQ
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Excellent news, Andy. God bless Rob & Sue.
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Here is the latest update on Rob's recovery off Facebook. Keep up the good work Rob.
Tom G.
Carbinite LSR
May 20 at 6:03 AM ?
Apologize for the long delay in any updates. No major changes, but a slow steady progression in Rob's recovery.
We've just been busy dealing with life in these crazy days we live in. Still doing rehab a couple days a week. Not walking yet, but he is now able to eat a wider variety of food so that was a huge step as he was always complaining about being hungry! We were able to take Rob over to where the car (what is left of it) is being stored. We decided to not even touch it till he was able to see it as it was right after the crash. Most of the team was able to get together. It was not necessarily an easy day, but a good one. His first words when seeing the car were "I think we can fix it". We are still not 100% sure he was joking, but we do see his sarcasm and sense of humor coming back. Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers. Andy for the 496 team.
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Thanx, Tom
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Rob and Sue, I don't know how to contact you and don't want to bother you even if I did but if you have not already you may want to consider hyperbaric chamber treatment.
My wife has a brain injury and it seems to be helping her.
Best wishes, Don
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a little more oxy getting through the cell walls helps all kinds of healing :-D
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Here is the latest update on Rob's recovery off Facebook. Keep up the good work Rob.
Tom G.
Thank you for posting the update Tom.
Keep up the good work Rob. We are all pulling for you.
F/B
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Was thinking of Rob today and his crash last year. Found a new post Andy made. Keep up the good work Rob. We miss you.
Tom G.
Carbinite LSR
August 4 at 7:55 AM ?
Andy here. Know it's been awhile. No major changes in Rob's progress, so obviously that is a bit discouraging for him at times. There is still potential for improvement in his physical abilities but he does get discouraged and loses motivation when it seems like no progress is being made. Carbinite is doing well in the midst of the pandemic. Rob does remember all of you as he reads comments and we chat about past time on the salt. He will not be out this year but is open to visiting and seeing old friends at some point in the future. Hope everyone has a great Speedweek!
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I hope Rob has not slipped off of everyone's radar. It has been just over a year now and here is the latest post.
Rob, keep at it, and things will get better.
Tom G.
Carbinite LSR
September 15 at 10:27 AM ?
Today marks the 1 year anniversary of Rob's crash. In some ways it seems like a decade ago, in other ways it seems like it was just a few days back. This documentary was just finished up by Todd Sampson's Body Hack. The crew from Australia spent a couple days with us just before the crash happened and did a wonderful job of capturing what drove our team. Again, a big thank you for the prayers and support shown by so many people that helped us get through this past year. God continues to give us the Grace we need for each day.
https://www.facebook.com/CarbiniteLSR/videos/646569176292350/
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We have kept Rob in our prayers and I am glad to know that he's still doing well. Get well soon and we'll see you back on the salt Rob.
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https://www.facebook.com/CarbiniteLSR/photos/pb.115785421856394.-2207520000../2836884459746463/?type=3&eid=ARC4fbvpyzlEM-30PC2xz11mbsmLLqiVA97wVP-HuIzWw4a5JnHFfHlDc45Y3XGPOuKjQ4D9RAbpwOZV
Hi Rob, Belated Happy Birthday, sorry I am late to the party. Keep up the good work on getting better.
Regards,
Tom G.
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Happy belated birthday from me too, Rob. Someday let's go back to Area 52.
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And from Patti and I as well.
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This was the last post on Facebook by Andy about Rob and Sue and how things are going.
We miss you Rob and keep up the fight to get better.
Tom G.
Carbinite LSR
April 22, 2021 ?
Andy here for Rob & Sue. Apologies for the incredibly long delay in posting any updates on Rob. We know many of you are praying and thinking of him and his family often. As much as we have all been hoping for major positive changes, there have not been many. Rob has been stable for about a year now. He has undergone a variety of treatments, mental and physical therapies, along with medicines and supplements. The reality is that the damage done to his brain will never fully heal. We have not given up hope for the possibility of continued long term progress, and will continue to pursue any treatments we think could be helpful, but he will never get back to his pre-crash condition and the likelihood of him progressing beyond where he is right now is very slight. Rob has pretty much all of his memory, other than about a few weeks prior to the crash and the following 6 months. His body is healthy, and so physically would be able to function, if only his brain could coordinate what he wants it to do. He has full movement, but the fine motor controls have not come back. He can do things like feeding himself, wheeling around in his wheel chair, and brushing his teeth, for example, but he is not able to perform complex activities like walking and has great difficulty typing or writing. While he can talk (slower than before) and his memories are all there, they are still jumbled and his higher level thinking is impaired by the damage to his brain. Engineering and design work unfortunately are very unlikely in Rob?s future. The problem is that he cannot pull his memories and knowledge together to consistently or reliably process it. Some things he says are spot on. Others, not so much... Sue is taking care of him full time. Her strength and commitment have been amazing to see, and she has been encouraged by your prayers and the many that have given of time and resources in so many other ways. The road was not easy for her, even prior to the crash. I was very unaware of the world of land speed racing when Rob decided to build a Lakester for an acquaintance, and then move on to designing his own car that so many people came to love, but I have come to appreciate and love the world of LSR. Looking back, I think there are many things that Rob would have done differently, and we even discussed some of these the day before the crash. He really wanted to just get the record and be done as he knew the toll that was being taken on his family and himself. Land speed racing is an incredible culture. The ingenuity and passion on display is evident, but the ?salt fever? can get so strong that it hurts those around you. Pride and selfish ambition can very easily get in the way of logic, and this was the case for Rob. I?ve also seen incredible stories of good on the salt and in racing as a whole. Rob did so many things right, but he also, admittedly, made some big mistakes along the way. If you have salt fever, I am not suggesting you give it up, but just take some time to make sure you are doing it the right way. Do not put your vehicle or goals in front of the people that you love. Do what it takes to bring them alongside, and give them the time to accept and support without forcing things. The risks are great and you don?t want to have regrets. Enjoy the salt or whatever else you are passionate about, but keep things in perspective. Put priority on the things that matter most, faith, family and friends. Based on my conversations with Rob prior to, and after the crash, I know Rob agrees. Find your purpose, joy and hope in the person of Christ and the things He says are important, as His words are true. Temporary joy is found in this life and in the things we accomplish, as this world is created by God for our enjoyment. We find that joy and purpose when we use our gifts and abilities to do great things, but the only lasting joy is found in Him. Despite the rotten turn of events that happened on the salt for Rob, his family and team, there is still hope, because our hope is not in a car or temporary pleasures. I?m also not saying we have achieved this ideal, as we still struggle at times, but we are confident that our permanent Hope is secure, knowing God provided it for us through His own sacrifice. This truth carries us, and we hope each of you can see Him more clearly because of getting to know Rob and the team. If you can, then Rob would be pleased. He said many times along the way that if this car project points just one person to Christ it would be worth it. There will not be many posts from here on out, but we will share when we have time or if things change. We do greatly appreciate the prayers and support. Don?t hesitate to reach out to me and I will pass messages on to Rob and Sue.
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Thanx for this update. It has been a long time. I'm happy he's made some progress after the latest I'd heard.
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I just wanted to post this reminder of happier days at "Area 52" in Nevada with Rob testing his Carbiliner.
All the best to you, Rob and to Susan and to the whole team. Merry Christmas to you all.
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Thanks for posting this Neil. I often think of Rob and his family and friends. I also hope that they have a Merry Christmas.
Regards, Dave Gray
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I was recently in the Western Penn. area and thought of Rob and crew it was hard to not drop by and say hello---but to honor the families wishes I just thought good will his way!!
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It's been more than 3 years since Rob's crash. Does anyone here have any fairly recent info about his recovery?
Thanks in advance. I don't want to burden/bother him or his family, but would certainly welcome some good news from a
reliable source.
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It's been more than 3 years since Rob's crash. Does anyone here have any fairly recent info about his recovery?
Thanks in advance. I don't want to burden/bother him or his family, but would certainly welcome some good news from a
reliable source.
I created this little video in honor of Rob and his team.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K40z8g4MQmo
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Thanks Neil.
Maybe someone who has their phone number could call Sue and ask how Rob is doing and that we are thinking of them. Just a thought.
Tom G.
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I expect to get and up date the Mgr of Carbonite is going to be in AZ on business I am suppose to meet him for lunch.
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Sounds good. Thanks Sparky.
Tom G.
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Andy Hinson is in town for some sort of convention and I picked him up at the airport the other night and I asked about Rob. He told me that there were several life changes in the Freyvogel family. jobs, graduations, ect etc LIFE STUFF!
Andy felt sure there would be and update on Facebook fairly soon,.
I am sorry this post doesn't have any details but I for sure wish to honor the family's wish to post change updates as they choose.
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Thanks Sparky,
I look forward to the family's post on how everyone is doing.
I appreciate you asking for us.
Tom G.
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Rob,
If you happen to stop by this site today, I just wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday and hope you are doing well.
Take care,
Tom G.
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This is an open message to Rob Freyvogel.
Rob, we're hoping your recovery continues, and that you are in reasonably good spirits. Your Carbiliner was quite inspirational
(at least as far as I'm concerned), and your generosity in sharing your project's design -- and status -- with others (including youngsters) is also appreciated.
I don't want to snoop too much, or ask too much. But if you -- or a family member or other representative would let us know
how you're doing lately, this would be much appreciated. Hopefully, of course, it's good news.
Best regards,
Andrew Lampenfeld
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This is an open message to Rob Freyvogel.
Rob, we're hoping your recovery continues, and that you are in reasonably good spirits. Your Carbiliner was quite inspirational
(at least as far as I'm concerned), and your generosity in sharing your project's design -- and status -- with others (including youngsters) is also appreciated.
I don't want to snoop too much, or ask too much. But if you -- or a family member or other representative would let us know
how you're doing lately, this would be much appreciated. Hopefully, of course, it's good news.
Best regards,
Andrew Lampenfeld
https://youtu.be/MW94SGS9iJk
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To all land speed racers everywhere and particularly to Sue & Rob- Merry Christmas.
https://youtu.be/khQN5ylb3H0
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Thank You, we need more of this...
Happy Holidays, no, Merry Christmas to all!!
John