Medics have begun the process of taking Michael Schumacher out of the induced coma a month after the Formula One legend suffered a traumatic brain injury in a ski accident in France.
Reports of Schumacher reacting positively to being woken up surfaced Wednesday. But, it was not confirmed by either the seven-time F1 champion's family or his manager, Sabine Kehm till Thursday . In fact, she dismissed the reports calling them mere speculations.
However, Thursday, she issued a statement saying that doctors have reduced Schumi's sedation. "Michael's sedation is being reduced in order to allow the start of the waking up process which may take a long time," she said, reports the Associated Press.
The news agency also reported that the sedation was reduced to check whether the swelling in his brain was gone and what functions the brain retained.
Initially, The Telegraph reported that the "awakening" begins with a sedation phase. This follows in patients opening their eyes and then "reestablishment of some kind of communication" by asking them to do things like "open your eyes, shut your eyes, and squeeze your hand."
Schumacher's family requested for some privacy. "The family of Michael Schumacher is again requesting to respect its privacy and the medical secret, and to not disturb the doctors treating Michael in their work," Kehm said, according to AP. "At the same time, the family wishes to express sincere appreciation for the worldwide sympathy. ... For the protection of the family, it was originally agreed by the interested parties to communicate this information only once this process was consolidated. Please note that no further updates will be given."
Since the ski accident in the French Alps December 29, the 45-year-old former racer has undergone two brain surgeries to remove blood clots, reported the New York Daily News.