Dale Earnhardt Jr. Opens Up About His Daughter Isla’s Struggles After 2019 Plane Crash
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his wife, Amy, have always been open about the challenges they’ve faced as a family. However, in a recent interview, they shared deeply personal reflections on the emotional impact of the 2019 plane crash they survived, especially concerning their daughter Isla. At the time of the crash, Isla was just a toddler, barely 15 months old. Now, five years later, she is still dealing with the emotional scars of that traumatic event. Though she’s slowly making progress, Isla’s fear of flying remains a significant hurdle for her.
Amy explained that it took a full year before she herself could feel somewhat comfortable flying again, but Isla’s struggles were even more intense. “For a while, she would tremble and shake whenever we took off,” Amy recalled. Because Isla was still so young and unable to express her feelings verbally, it was incredibly difficult for her parents to understand and help her process the fear. Amy added, “It was hard to talk through it with her since she couldn’t yet communicate what she was feeling.” This created an emotional challenge that the family had to work through together, focusing on comforting Isla as best as they could during each flight.
While Isla’s fear of flying is still present, there have been some improvements over time. Amy shared that they’ve worked to help Isla feel safe by holding her hand and providing comfort during flights, especially at takeoff, which remains the hardest part for her. This ongoing process of healing is one that’s shaped how the family approaches travel, but they are hopeful that with time, Isla will continue to grow more comfortable. “She’s doing better now,” Amy noted, suggesting that gradual steps forward are key in helping Isla overcome her lingering fear.
On a brighter note, Isla is also adjusting to her new role as an older sister. When Amy and Dale welcomed their second daughter, Nicole, in 2020, Isla wasn’t initially thrilled about the idea of having a sibling. “It wasn’t her idea,” Amy laughed, recalling how Isla ignored the pregnancy and didn’t show much interest in the idea of being a big sister. However, now that Nicole is old enough to interact and play, Isla has warmed up to her new role. “Now that Nicole can talk and chase Isla around the house, they’re really starting to enjoy each other’s company,” Amy said, highlighting how time and growth have helped Isla embrace the sibling dynamic.
Despite the emotional challenges they’ve faced, both Dale and Amy are focused on creating a positive future for their children. Dale, who retired from racing in 2017, shared how his perspective on life has shifted. He now focuses on opportunities that will leave a meaningful legacy for his daughters. This includes their new venture together, the launch of High Rock Vodka, which they hope will not only be successful but also create a foundation for their family’s future. Dale emphasized that he’s always thinking about the next generation and how he can contribute to building something lasting for them to carry forward.
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