Pope writes emotional letter to Alex Zanardi, praise for providing "lesson in humanity"

Alex Zanardi

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Pope writes emotional letter to Zanardi, praise for providing "lesson in humanity"

Zanardi remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital after accident

Ian Parkes

Wednesday 24 June 2020 13:31

Pope Francis has written to former Formula 1 driver Alex Zanardi, sending him his thoughts and prayers, and thanking him for providing a "lesson in humanity".

Zanardi is currently in an induced coma at Siena's Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital following neuro and maxillofacial surgery on Friday as a result of a collision with a heavy vehicle while competing in a hand-cycling race in Italy.

The hospital confirmed on Wednesday [June 24] that the 53-year-old Italian remains in a serious but stable condition, and that now no new updates will be provided unless his situation alters.

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Prior to this latest horrific accident, Zanardi's story is an enduring and enlightening one as for almost 20 years he has overcome disability after losing his legs in a CART crash at the Lausitzring in 2001.

Since then, Zanardi has forged himself a successful career as a para-athlete, winning four gold medals and two silvers across the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, along with numerous world titles.

Addressing Zanardi's situation, via a handwritten letter printed in Gazzetta dello Sport, Pope Francis wrote: “Dear Alessandro, your story is an example of how to be able to start again after a sudden stop.

“Through sport, you have taught us how to live life to the full, making disability a lesson in humanity.

“Thank you for giving strength to those who had lost it. At this painful time, I am close to you, I pray for you and your family. May the Lord bless you and Our Lady guard you. Fraternally."

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