In his first social media post since his horrific crash at Pocono Raceway in August, Robert Wickens admits he faces a long road to a full recovery after undergoing numerous surgeries.
Wickens' family released a statement with his Schmidt Peterson team revealing the full list of injuries the Canadian suffered in the crash, including fractures to both arms and legs as well as spinal cord injuries.
From his hospital bed at the Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, he spoke about his injuries and wished all of the competitors' good luck going into the final race of the season at Sonoma.
In the video, he said: "I just wanted to take the time to send you guys a quick note.
"It's obviously been a long time since I posted on social media, but I wanted to say all of your kind words and positivity has meant the absolute world to me and my family.
"I'm in rehab now trying to get back to 100% as quickly as possible, but I don't know what the future holds for me, it's going to be a very long road to recovery.
"All I can say is that I promise you guys I'm going to work as hard as possible, train as hard as possible to make sure I'm back in a race car as quickly as possible."
Wickens has also been given the Sunoco Rookie Of The Year award for 2018, beating Andretti Autosport's Zach Veach to the accolade despite not finishing the final three races of the season.
In a statement released by the team, team-owner Sam Schmidt explained Wickens surpassed all the expectations set by the team and the #6 Lucas Oil car would be ready for him whenever he felt ready to return. Colombia's Carlos Munoz filled in for Wickens' in the final two races at Portland and Sonoma.
"When Robert joined this team, we had the highest expectations set for him to achieve," the statement read.
"Having Robert clinch the Sunoco Rookie of the Year with one race left on the 2018 calendar after missing the last three races, it’s just a testament to how hard he’s worked this season to set him up for a strong finish.
"The dedication, effort and energy he puts into his race craft, working with the team and his teammates, and all the above-and-beyond work he’s put in with our partners and the fans, we couldn’t ask for a better addition.
"We are proud of all that Robert has achieved this season, and we look forward to welcoming him back upon his full recovery. The No. 6 entry will be there waiting for him whenever he’s ready."
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