Kevin Swindell released from hospital

Sprint Car driver Kevin Swindell was released Friday from Des Moines (Iowa) Mercy Hospital, following an eight-day stay for treatment for injuries as a result of an accident earlier this month at the Knoxville Nationals.

Swindell’s sprint car flipped in the first heat race on Aug. 14. Since then, the four-time Chili Bowl champion has undergone two successful surgeries.

Swindell, 26, was diagnosed with two fractures in his back and a spinal cord injury.

Family statement

“The doctors and staff at Des Moines Mercy have been generous to us, both in their care for Kevin and their patience and understanding to all of us throughout our time here. We will forever be grateful to them.

“We cannot begin to thank everyone in the racing community for the support that you've shown to Kevin. The thoughtfulness of all of you is seen and felt and we feel stronger each day because of you. Kevin feels the power of your prayers and they are working. Our motto is: God showed up and showed out.

“We're also grateful for the donations that have come in and the continued fundraisers that race fans, organizations and tracks have started to help Kevin. We know there is a long road ahead for him and the donations will help ease the burden of the medical expenses we'll have and allow Kevin to focus solely on his health.”

To make donations

An account has been set up with Bank of America for donations towards Swindell’s recovery.

To make a donation to Kevin's Recovery Fund, please make a check out to Kevin Swindell and write "Recovery Fund" on the memo line. Checks can be mailed to: Kevin Swindell Recovery Fund, c/o Spire Sports + Entertainment, P.O. Box 638, Cornelius, NC 28031.

Donations can be made online at www.stevekingfoundation.org. Please be sure to type "Kevin Swindell Recovery Fund" in the comment section to ensure your donation goes to Kevin.