Maria Costello has spoken for the first time since her crash during TT qualifying, saying she is “lucky to be here”.
The sidecar driver was injured alongside passenger Shaun Parker in an incident near Brandish on May 26 during the opening qualifying session.
Costello suffered a broken back, a broken arm, multiple broken ribs, a liver laceration, a broken nose, a broken eye socket, facial lacerations and a broken sternum in the crash.
The 51-year-old has been left paralysed and is now receiving treatment at the Waltham Centre in Lincolnshire.
Challenge
“The past four weeks have been the biggest challenge of my life and I know I’m lucky to be here,” Costello said.
“This is only the start of my new journey but your support means everything.”
The racer, who holds the record for the fastest lap around the TT course by a female solo rider, praised those who came to her aid at the scene and the medical staff who treated her.
“Words can’t express how grateful I am to those who tended to me at the scene and my immense thanks go to all the staff at Nobles who then got me to Aintree,” she said.
“I have some incredible people to thank who are now looking after me here at the Waltham Centre, including my surgeon, medical team, nurses and HCAs.”
Costello also paid tribute to her family and team, while sending well wishes to her passenger Parker.
“Special thanks to my family, Alan, Dale, my team and all those who have been by my side and sending Shaun all my well wishes as he continues his recovery,” she said.
“It’s such a lot to take in and on the difficult days, it’s YOUR unbelievable support that has made all the difference. I’m blown away by all of it and especially the financial support – thank you from the bottom of my heart to each and every one of you for donating.”