Polish Speedskater Kamila Sellier Shares Hopeful Update Following Horrific Face Injury
Polish Olympian Kamila Sellier has shared a brief but positive update from her hospital bed in Milan after undergoing emergency surgery for a severe facial injury. The 25-year-old speedskater was involved in a terrifying accident during a 1500m race over the weekend, which left her with a deep cut across her face from a competitor's blade.
Graphic On-Ice Incident Halts Competition
The dramatic incident occurred as Sellier crashed violently into the arena wall, with blood immediately pouring from her face and pooling on the ice below. Race officials were forced to bring the competition to an immediate halt as medical personnel rushed to her aid. To provide privacy from the packed crowd, a white sheet was quickly erected around the injured athlete as she received urgent medical attention.
After being carefully immobilized and placed on a stretcher, Sellier managed to give the concerned spectators a reassuring thumbs-up gesture as she was wheeled out of the arena. She received initial stitches at the venue before being transported to a Milan hospital for more comprehensive surgical treatment.
Hospital Selfie and Inspirational Message
Following her operation, Sellier shared a selfie from her hospital bed, strategically cropping the image to conceal the surgically repaired side of her face. Alongside the photo, she posted an inspirational message to her followers: "I know that one day I'll look at this picture and remember that I'm stronger than I ever believed."
The athlete added: "Thank you for all your words of support. Just wanted to let you know that I'm doing quite okay." Her positive attitude despite the traumatic experience has been widely praised by fans and fellow athletes alike.
Medical Concerns and Team Update
Despite the hopeful update, Sellier is not yet completely out of danger. A spokesperson for the Polish national team confirmed to the BBC: "Kamila had surgery last night. She's in good condition. We're waiting for further tests today, to check her eye for any signs of damage." The proximity of the injury to her eye remains a significant concern for medical staff.
Sellier's husband, Diane, who has also represented Poland in speedskating, called for "positive energy for (a) good recovery" and expressed confidence in his wife's resilience: "She is strong and will be back stronger."
Race Aftermath and Penalties
The crash that injured Sellier also involved American skater Kristen Santos-Griswold and Italian Olympic legend Ariana Fontana. Race officials later determined that Santos-Griswold had committed an illegal lane pass that contributed to the accident, resulting in a penalty that cost her a spot in the quarter-final round. Fontana managed to continue competing and eventually finished fifth in the final.
The incident has sparked renewed discussions about safety protocols in speedskating, particularly regarding blade protection and collision prevention measures during high-speed races.
