Family says NASCAR Hall of Famer is on the mend
NASCAR Hall of Famer David Pearson, one of the greatest drivers in stock-car racing history, is recovering from a stroke he suffered Dec. 9.
According to a statement provided Wednesday by the Pearson family, the 80-year-old Pearson was regaining mobility and undergoing therapy to improve his movement.
"David had a mild stroke on December 9, but is doing great and well on the road to recovery," the statement said. "The stroke affected his left side somewhat but he is able to walk slowly and his arm continues to get better with maneuverability. He has great grip with his left hand so we are very much encouraged. He continues to have therapy on both his leg and arm, and progresses each day."
The family added that Pearson is working his way to complete rehabilitation.
"Today, he is 80 to 85 percent back to normal and we expect a full recovery soon," the statement said. "Thanks to the NASCAR family and all of his fans and friends and for their support and concern."
Pearson, a native of Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a three-time champion of NASCAR's premier series (1966, '68, '69) and ranks second on NASCAR's all-time win list with 105 victories, second only to King Richard Petty. The 1960 Rookie of the Year was named one of NASCAR's 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998.
Pearson, the 1976 Daytona 500 winner, just missed out on being a part of the NASCAR Hall of Fame's inaugural class in 2010. The following year, he earned his induction as the top vote-getter.