Back in Dec. 29 last year, Formula One icon Michael Schumacher sustained a severe head injury while skiing in the French Alps. He was later put in a medically induced coma and has been in such a state for more than two months now.
However, the latest update on the racer's condition has shone a light in the tunnel for his family. According to CNN, Schumacher has shown "small, encouraging signs" that has given everyone confidence that he will eventually wake up.
The German driver was put in a coma to promote healing and reduce tissue damage. He would be gradually revived in the next few weeks or months so he could regain consciousness and continue treatment.
Doctors started reducing the sedation late in January this year "in order to allow the start of the waking-up process, which may take a long time," according to statement released by Sabine Kehn, Schumacher's manager, The Guardian noted.
"Clinical staff have been regularly moving his legs and arms in order to stop his muscles from withering away. Doctors had until recently described his condition as 'critical, but stable,'" the British publication continued. "The process of reducing sedation can take days or even weeks, depending on the strength of medication used. Whether Schumacher can fully recover from his injuries, however, is doubtful."
Kehn, in a new statement released Wednesday, said that they remain "confident" that the F1 racer will wake up.
"There sometimes are small, encouraging signs, but we also know that this is the time to be very patient," the statement also read.
"It was clear from the start that this will be a long and hard fight for Michael. We are taking this fight on together with the team of doctors, whom we fully trust. The length of the process is not the important part for us."
Schumacher earned iconic status in the world of professional car racing after winning five consecutive titles from 2000 to 2004 with Ferrari. He also won two championships at Benetton in 1994 and 1995, CNN noted. He ended his 19-year F1 career in 2012.
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