Former Cup driver Sterling Marlin has successfully undergone the third of four stages of brain surgery called Deep Brain Stimulation to treat Parkinson’s disease, his family announced in a press release Thursday.
The procedures, which began March 11, was performed at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.
Deep Brain Stimulation delivers electrical pulses to brain cells to decrease symptoms. It is the most commonly performed surgical treatment for Parkinson’s.
The recovery process is expected to take three months.
Marlin, 61, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2012.
“On behalf of my father and family, I would like to thank each and every one you that have been supportive of my father throughout the years,” Sutherlin House, Marlin’s daughter said. “It truly means the world to all of us.
“Parkinson’s is a roller coaster, physically and emotionally, for both the individual and family. After considerable thought, research and consultations with numerous doctors and specialists, my dad decided to undergo Deep Brain Stimulation surgery. We ask that you send prayers for a successful final surgery and recovery.”
Marlin, who won the 1994 and 1995 Daytona 500, is expected to return to compete in Pro Late Model racing once he is cleared by medical professionals.
Sterling Marlin undergoing deep brain stimulation surgery. Read the official press release. -SMR Crew pic.twitter.com/ntzY4sbKQq
— Sterling Marlin (@SMR_114) April 4, 2019
