Maradona: The worst is over

The former Argentine soccer star is improving slowly but firmly, according to last reports from physicians. His relatives looked relieved yesterday, after one week in intensive care.

After one week in intensive care at a Buenos Aires clinic, doctors confirmed Maradona’s breathing has stabilized today and he no longer needs the help of an artificial respirator. Looking more relaxed after seven days of tension, Maradona’s relatives also confirmed the information, while hundreds of people from all over the world remain at the gates of the hospital praying fro Diego.

Maradona, who still requires an oxygen mask, was admitted to an intensive care unit in a private clinic on 18 April with a heart inflammation condition and a lung infection. Meanwhile, Maradona’s condition continued to dominate Argentina’s news headlines as family and friends expressed relief that the soccer great was off a respirator.

“I am relieved and pleased because, while this process is going to be slow, one can say things are now better,” Maradona’s 17-year-old daughter, Dalma said last night.  Yesterday, Maradona’s father, Diego, with his thumbs up, told the press: “Everything is OK”, as he was leaving the clinic.

According to information that could not be independently confirmed, Maradona could even open his eyes and have a brief chat with his daughters. However, he is still sedated an under close care by doctors team.

At the gates of the clinic, hundreds of funs not only from Argentina but also from countries like Peru, Ecuador, South Africa, Mexico, Israel and even Kenya, were still praying for Maradona’s recovery. Doctors promised a new report tomorrow, but it is now possible to say that the worst is over.