Michael Schumacher: Former racing driver able to communicate by fluttering eyelashes

The F1 legend could return home by the end of the month

Ella Alexander
Tuesday 22 July 2014 11:41 BST
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Michael Schumacher in 2010. The seven-times Formula One world champion has now emerged from his coma
Michael Schumacher in 2010. The seven-times Formula One world champion has now emerged from his coma

Michael Schumacher is now reportedly communicating with his family by fluttering his eyelashes.

The F1 champion’s recovery is allegedly improving to such an extent that he may be allowed home by the end of the month, but will need constant support. He is said to be able to answer questions from family members by moving his eyelashes.

He is currently being treated at Grenoble hospital in Switzerland, near to his family house, after moving from Lausanne in France in June. The transfer followed his emergence from a six-month-long coma, announced on 16 June.

He suffered near-fatal head injuries after a skiing accident in the French resort of Meribel in December 2013.

His wife, Corinna, wrote in a public letter published in the Grand Prix programme last weekend that “we made it through the hardest time!”

She went on to thank fans for all their “good wishes and positive energies” and also confirmed what many medical experts had previously suggested; that his recovery would be a long one.

“Now we are facing a phase which will presumably take a long time,” she continued. “We trust that time will be Michael's ally in this fight. Until then I would like to wish you and your families all the best as well.”

Medical experts have said that the former racing driver may never fully recover from the accident. Neurology specialist Erich Riederer said Schumacher “will remain an invalid for the rest of his life” and will always rely on the help of others.

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