French newspaper L’Equipe has reported that Michael Schumacher is waking gradually from his artificially induced coma and is responding positively to treatment. The seven-time F1 champion has been in a artificial coma since 29 December, and has started the phase of gradual awakening this week. However, after five weeks in a medically induced coma, there are fears that he may remain in a persistent vegative state for the rest of his life.

Schumacher’s spokeswomen, Sabine Kehm reiterated that speculation about his condition should be ignored. In a statement she said: “I insist again on the fact that any statement on the health of Michael Schumacher that does not come from the medical team in charge or his management is just speculation.”

His wife Corinna has remained at his bedside throughout. The family has received more than 1,000 letters of support. In a statement, the family said:

We are deeply touched by all the messages to get well soon for Michael which are still being sent. That gives us strength. Thank you all so much… We all know he is a fighter and will not give up.

[Source : DailyMail]