After days of uncertainty and heartbreak, the family of Commissioner Cathy Coleman has shared a hopeful update on her condition. While she remains in critical condition, there are encouraging signs that have renewed hope among her loved ones and the community that continues to rally around her.
In a message shared by Coleman’s granddaughter and echoed during Thursday’s Scioto County Commissioners meeting, the family revealed several positive developments in her condition:
“She hadn’t been responding, which was a big concern. But today, she moved her head slightly, and when my mom asked her to open her eyes, she did—just a little. Neuro came in today to assess and, thankfully, they have no concerns about neurological issues at this time. That’s huge.”
Doctors have placed Coleman on a very low dose of sedation medication to help her wake up gradually. She has been off blood pressure medication for several days—another positive sign—and is beginning to absorb a small amount of nutrition, a milestone that hadn’t been reached until now.
Kidney function has returned to normal, and while lung imaging results are still pending, her bowels have shown slight improvement. The pneumonia she developed after aspirating a week ago is still a concern, but for the first time in several days, her family feels cautiously optimistic.
“She is still in critical condition and things can change at any time,” her granddaughter wrote. “But we needed this sign of hope. Today has been a prayer answered from God. Please, I desperately ask you to continue to pray for her. She needs a miracle and all the prayers she can get.”
Commissioners Urge Continued Prayers
During today’s regular meeting of the Scioto County Commissioners, Bryan Davis and Scottie Powell echoed the family’s plea for continued prayer.
“She’s a fighter, that’s for sure,” said Commissioner Powell said. “Continue to pray for her and the family. Our hearts are with her.”
A Community Holding On to Faith
Commissioner Coleman, 71, has been in critical condition since a devastating crash in Kentucky earlier this month. The accident, which occurred at a malfunctioning traffic light, left her with multiple severe injuries and claimed the life of her beloved dog, Packer.
Despite several surgeries and major setbacks—including complications with her bowels and pneumonia in both lungs—Coleman’s fight for survival has galvanized the entire county.
The hashtags #PrayForCathy and #SpeakLife remain active on social media as friends, coworkers, and citizens continue to hold vigil in spirit and prayer.
The next few days remain crucial, and Coleman’s journey is far from over. But today’s update offers something the community has been desperate for: hope.
“She’s still in critical condition,” her granddaughter emphasized, “but this is a step in the right direction. Please keep praying.”
