Nelson Mandela, former South African president, remains in critical condition but is showing signs of improvement according to a government statement.
The update on his recovery was issued after CBS reported Mandela underwent a "surgical procedure to unblock a dialysis tube" and "on one occasion was not responding to his meds (medicines), and on another his life support machine showed him in distress." The government made no comment on these specific reports.
Since Mandela's hospitalization, the world has been anxiously checking on the status of his recovery.
The first democratically-elected leader has been treated at the Mediclinic Heart Hospital in Pretoria, South Africa for a lung infection since June 8. Leaders and admirers from around the world have continued to wish the former anti-apartheid pioneer a speedy recovery.
President Jacob Zuma has thanked the public for support and asked for their continued prayer. He also promoted the children's hospital project started by the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund.
In his statement, Zuma expressed Mandela's love for children and that he "wants the best for them" and wants us to "ensure they have a better future." The current plan is set to build a 238-bed facility to serve children across Southern Africa.
"The hospital will be one of the most inspiring legacies of this remarkable statesman and leader of our people, and we humbly invite all sectors to actively support this project," Zuma claimed.
Mandela spent 27 years in prison after fighting against the apartheid regime in South Africa. In 1994, he became president after the white minority rule ended. He is often referred to by his clan name, Madiba.
Earlier this month, Mandela celebrated his 95th birthday. To show their support, people in South Africa completed 67 minutes of community service to honor the 67 years he was in public service.
