McShane Slowly Improving

Natasha McShane no longer comatose, has "limited" brain activity, docs say

A Northern Irish exchange student viciously beaten in a baseball-bat-wielding attack in Bucktown is no longer comatose and has exhibited "limited" brain activity, Natasha McShane's family said in a statement Friday.

In the statement, released by Northwestern Memorial Hospital Friday afternoon, doctors say McShane's health is improving, although she remains in serious condition.

The pressure on her brain as a result of the injuries she suffered has decreased and she has been weaned off of coma-inducing medications, according to the statement.

"She is awake, but still only demonstrating limited brain activity. Although her movements are 'uncontrolled' at the moment, the family is hopeful for additional encouraging signs," the statement said.

McShane briefly opened her eyes a week ago, a sign that strengthened her family's hope for a full recovery.

The family is extending their thanks and appreciation for the show of "support, generosity and prayers," the statement said. Neither the family nor McShane's physicians are granting interviews.

McShane and her friend Stacy Jurich were attacked in the early hours of April 23, allegedly by a baseball-bat wielding gang-banger who beat both women unconscious and stole their purses.

Jurich has been released from the hospital and is undergoing regular rehabilitation.

Family, friends and strangers denounced the violence during a prayer vigil last week.

Marcy Cruz and Heriberto Viramontes have been charged in the attack.

Copyright CHIST - SunTimes
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