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Maria De Villota's recovery 'remarkable'

The Marussia test driver was in critical condition and lost an eye after a crash early this month.

MARUSSIA TEST DRIVER Maria De Villota’s recovery after a crash which resulted in her losing her right eye has been hailed as ‘remarkable’.

The Spaniard ran into a support truck at Duxford airfield while testing for the Formula One team on July 3.

De Villota, who required two operations, was in a critical condition but has shown enough improvement to be moved out of the intensive care unit at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.

The 32-year-old’s family remains by her side and, according to the team, she was speaking to family members on Sunday.

A statement released by the team late on Wednesday read: “Despite severe injuries, Maria’s recovery during that time has been remarkable.

“Following two successful surgical procedures in the days following the accident, last Saturday the medical team at Addenbrooke’s Hospital began to gradually reduce the level of Maria’s sedation.

“By Sunday morning, (she) was awake and able to speak to her family, which provided a very important – albeit early – indication that there were positive signs for (her) recovery.

“Since that time, Maria has been making small, but significant steps. She was moved out of the Neurological Critical Care Unit on Monday and is no longer receiving sedation.

Family

“Her family remain by her side and she is communicating freely with them and the medical team. Medical assessments are ongoing to monitor Maria’s improving condition.

“The team has provided this update with the consent and support of the de Villota family who, whilst keen to ensure Maria’s care remains the priority, are understanding and appreciative of the concern for her wellbeing.”

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