Michael Schumacher, who is undergoing treatment for severe brain surgery, "blinked" after the doctors tested his neurological reflexes.
French newspaper L'Equipe reported that the Formula One legend responded to the tests. "After gradually reducing the sedation of the patient, the team of head doctor Emmanuel Gay have been testing his neurological reflexes since Monday. During the early stages the patient blinked," the newspaper wrote, according to ninemsn.
The 45-year-old seven-time F1 champion was under induced coma after he hit his head on a rock in a ski accident in the French Alps, December 29. Thursday. It was reported that the doctors reduced the sedation to allow the start of the waking up process that might take a long time. This was done to assess the swelling of the brain and to see what level of functions were retained.
Experts initially said that the chances of Schumi's recovery were bleak. Colin Shieff, a neurosurgeon at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London, told BBC it was "virtually impossible" that Schumacher will ever recover. Shieff is not involved with the team treating the former racer. "I think that it will have to be considered a triumph of human physical resiliency, and of modern neurointensive care, if Michael is able to walk, feed himself, dress himself, and if he retains significant elements of his previous personality," he said.
Meanwhile, Schumacher's family thanked the fans for their support but requested them 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," Sabine Kehm, his manager said. "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."
