Samboy Lim out of coma and back home

MANILA, Philippines – After spending nearly two months in intensive care in a comatose state, PBA legend Samboy Lim is finally awake and back at home with his family.

Lim’s family announced on his official Facebook page that the former PBA superstar was released from the hospital last Wednesday, January 14, and was allowed to go home to a make-shift hospital room prepared by his family. 

The room has all the necessary medical supplies and equipment needed to aid his recovery, along with a “round-the-clock nurse care” and a “daily PT program.”

“Sam is now out of coma, has opened his eyes, has a sleep-wake cycle, smiles at funny stories, cries when it seems he becomes aware of his condition, puckers his lips to gesture a kiss, and follows simple instructions to close eyes, to kiss, to move fingers, to stick out tongue,” it was written in the post. 

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The family also announced that Lim’s doctors were surprised by his recovery, saying “Sam’s recovery has surprised his doctors, who told us that what we see in Sam now is entirely his and God’s.” 

“We are all happy to see any improvement. This may be a long journey but each step is a step forward and closer to his recovery,” the post also said. 

Lim unexpectedly collapsed during an exhibition game for PBA legends on November 28 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City. He was then taken to Medical City, where he was immediately confined to the intensive care unit after falling into a coma.

The family’s post on Facebook said that they paid a “total of 2.8 million pesos” for the hospital bills and thanked those who helped Lim in his recovery either by donating money or sending prayers. “We continue to be deeply grateful for your love and help,” it was written in the post.

Lim was the third overall pick in the 1986 PBA Draft. He played for the San Miguel Beermen from 1988-1997, helping them win a grand slam under Head Coach Norman Black in 1989.

Lim was a two-time PBA All-Star (1990, 1996) and made the league’s Mythical Second Team twice in 1990 and 1993. He was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame class of 2009. 

Lim was also the first ever awardee of the PBA Sportsmanship Award in 1993 and was included in the league’s 25 Greatest Players list. 

Lim also helped the Philippine men’s national basketball team win gold in the 1986 Kuala Lumpur FIBA Asia Championship.  

– Rappler.com