Great news!  Sam has been breathing on his own since last night.  He still has the vent in place, but it is only providing pressurized oxygen at 50%.  The mechanical breathing process has been all  Sam.  They have discovered that he is having some signs of pituitary gland irregularities (thyroid hormone low, cortisol low, blood sodium low, etc.).  Not an uncommon event after traumatic brain injury.  This is a very important detail, as it can hinder his recovery process, causing muscle wasting and fatigue and other problems that could contribute to a prolonged lack of consciousness.  Everything I read on the subject indicates that once hormone replacement is started (which it has for Sam as of yesterday) significant improvements can occur.  Maur was laying with her face about four inches from Sam while his eyes were open today and she feels certain that he was hearing her.  Keep praying everyone, our prayers are being answered!  Our appreciation for all the support on Sam's behalf cannot properly be expressed.  Sam lived for the chance to help all of you and now you are helping him.  Thank you.

Jayne Jessop (Sam's Aunt)