Relief as Maradona opens eyes

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Relief as Maradona opens eyes

From correspondents in Buenos Aires - Fox

April 28, 2004

DIEGO MARADONA opened his eyes and began consuming liquid foods today amid expressions of relief from family, friends and fans.

But the Argentine soccer great remains under a "guarded prognosis" and in intensive care for a ninth day since he was admitted to a private hospital with serious heart and lung problems.

Maradona's response to his medical treatment is "satisfactory" and he is breathing on his own, a medical update said today.

In the brief statement, Maradona's family said he "was deeply appreciative of the support" of his fans, some of whom have kept up a marathon vigil outside the Suizo Argentina Clinic.

Maradona, who led Argentina to the 1986 World Cup, opened his eyes for the first time on Monday, the daily Clarin reported.

Today's edition said Maradona's former wife, Claudia, and their two teenage daughters also were able now to spend more time at his bedside as he shows signs of improvement.

Although doctors didn't say what foods Maradona is consuming, they said his is a special diet. They also reported that antibiotics have brought a lung infection under control.

The 43-year-old former star was taken off a respirator last weekend, and is reportedly breathing without an oxygen mask.

Outside the clinic, more messages and posters urging Maradona a swift recovery were plastered on walls, many with an international flavour.

"Be strong, Mexico," and "Diego, we love you a lot, Peru," read a few. One in Portuguese declared, "Maradona, Thanks for the Magic, Brazil."

Java Antiquera, a native of Ecuador living here, said he had to stop by the hospital to pay homage. He said the letters, poems and messages pouring in from Latin America and beyond are proof that Maradona's following transcended boundaries.

"Diego is one of the best in the sport and he has given great pleasure to the entire world," said Antiquera. "He's right up there alongside Pele."

Some fans went to extremes just to be near Maradona.

Jorge Amaya, a 32-year-old from Cordoba, travelled hundreds of kilometres from his provincial city and vowed to remain every day until Maradona checks out.

In his 20-year career before retiring in 1997, Maradona also led Argentina to the 1990 World Cup final, and won Italian and Argentine league titles. In 2000, FIFA chose him as the game's best ever, alongside Pele.

But off the field drug and medical problems also garnered attention.

Maradona's family said drug problems have nothing to do with his present condition.

In January 2000, Maradona was hospitalised while holidaying in the Uruguayan resort of Punta del Este. At the time, he was diagnosed with a severe heart condition and later went to Cuba for drug rehabilitation.