Formula One champion Michael Schumacher is showing "moments of consciousness" after months in a medically induced coma. CTV describes the accident that led to his hospitalization.
"Schumacher fell while skiing in France in December of last year, hitting the right side of his head on a rock. Doctors removed blood clots from his brain and he was placed in a drug-induced coma."
But now things are looking up, according to CNN. Schumacher's agent said: "Michael is making progress on his way. He shows moments of consciousness and awakening. We are on his side during his long and difficult fight ... and we keep remaining confident."
And the outlet notes the news is especially surprising, given recent thoughts by former Formula One chief doctor Gary Harstein.
Harstein, who regularly blogs about all things motorsport, recently wrote about Schumacher's injury and his chances for recovery: "As time goes on, it becomes less and less likely that Michael will emerge to any significant extent." (Via Gary Harstein)
But in a new post in response to the update, Harstein writes: "What does this consciousness probably look like? It consists of episodes of clear, purposeful interaction with the environment, and/or clear signs of awareness of self, even if these signs are not constantly present."
Still, the BBC is careful to note Schumacher still has a lot of recovery to do.
"There are all sorts of things that can happen in intensive care with illnesses and that sort of thing. So he still has a long road ahead of him. But at least after three months there is some positive news to hang on to."
A writer for The Telegraph says Schumacher's family continues to ask for privacy throughout the process. They also ask for continued understanding of their decision not to disclose details.
Schumacher, who has been called "statistically the greatest driver the sport has ever seen" by Formula One, boasts 90 wins, 75 fastest laps and seven world titles.
