Tereza Nova Awakens from Coma, to Return Home for Recovery
Czech skier Tereza Nova, who suffered a severe fall during a World Cup downhill training run in Garmisch-Partenkirchen in January, has been awakened from her medically induced coma and will be transported back to her home country of the Czech Republic, her doctors in Germany announced on Thursday.
The 27-year-old crashed on January 24th and was airlifted directly from the course to the Murnau Clinic in Bavaria, where she was diagnosed with severe head trauma with hemorrhage, a carotid artery injury, and a fracture of the eye socket.
Due to the nature of the injuries, doctors placed Nova in a medically induced coma. After two weeks, the intensive care unit physicians began the gradual process of waking the skier by reducing her sedation.
"Once the brain swelling had subsided and the bleeding had visibly decreased, the patient was stable enough for us to slowly wake her up after consulting with our neurosurgical colleagues," said Markus Gruber, chief physician of the intensive care unit at Murnau Hospital.
"Tereza is now in a stable condition, which makes it safe to transport her back to the Czech Republic. She will undergo further examinations and a rehabilitation phase under the supervision of specialists at a local hospital there," the doctor explained.
"We still have a long way to go, but I am convinced that we will make it. Together with Terka’s parents, we would like to thank everyone for the support we have received, and at the same time ask for respect for the privacy and peace that Terka will need during her recovery," said Tereza Nova’s partner and coach of the Czech national ski team, Ondrej Berndt.
Nova’s Journey to Recovery
Nova’s accident sent shockwaves through the skiing community and her fans around the world. The skier, who had won a bronze medal in the downhill at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, was known for her aggressive style and determination on the slopes.
After her fall, Nova was immediately airlifted to the Murnau Clinic, a renowned trauma center in the Bavarian Alps. A team of specialists led by Gruber worked tirelessly to stabilize her condition and prevent further damage.
The initial focus of Nova’s treatment was to reduce swelling in her brain and relieve pressure on the injured carotid artery. Doctors performed several surgeries to address the bleeding and repair the damaged tissue.
As the swelling subsided, Nova’s condition gradually improved, and she began to show signs of consciousness. Doctors carefully monitored her response to stimuli and gradually reduced her sedation.
Over the past few weeks, Nova has continued to make progress, gaining strength and regaining function. While she still faces a long road of rehabilitation, her doctors are optimistic about her chances for a full recovery.
Support for Nova and Her Family
Throughout Nova’s ordeal, her family, friends, and fans have rallied around her, offering unwavering support and well wishes. The Czech Ski Federation has been closely involved in monitoring her condition and facilitating her care.
Coach Ondrej Berndt has been by Nova’s side since the accident, providing both medical and emotional support. He has been a constant source of strength and encouragement for Nova and her family.
Nova’s story has touched the hearts of people around the world, and her resilience in the face of adversity has served as an inspiration to many. As she continues her recovery, her supporters will undoubtedly continue to offer their prayers and well wishes for her full return to health and happiness.
