Coma victim able to speak for first time

A YOUNG businessman who spent four weeks in a coma after suffering a fractured skull has been able to speak to his family and friends for the first time in nine months.

Danny Healey, 28, had to have part of his skull removed after an incident at a city bar in September.

He had been able to communicate only by giving a thumbs-up, but his long-term partner Vanya Wosik said Danny was now able to talk.

Speaking exclusively to the Derby Telegraph, Miss Wosik said Danny had told her that he loved her.

The 29-year-old said: "I was overwhelmed when Dan was able to speak. At first, it was the odd yes or no, but now he can instigate a conversation.

"The other day, I asked him what we used to do to relax together on a Saturday night and he said 'have an Indian takeaway'. He remembers his favourite was a chicken korma."

After Danny, from Alvaston, suffered his injury when his head hit the ground in an incident at Saddlers Bar, part of his skull had to be taken out by surgeons to ease the pressure on his swollen brain. He has since been treated at Derby City General Hospital.

Miss Wosik said: "He has been using a button that he can press to signify 'yes or no'.

" He also has a control switch where he can turn his TV on or off and change channels."

She said: "I believe miracles can happen, I'm not an expert in head injuries and I just want to concentrate my efforts on trying to help Dan get better.

"I have not wanted to ask about the extent of his injuries because it is difficult – some people take years to recover and someone else with the same injuries could take less time because everyone is different but I believe in fate.

"I just hope that in two years, we will be able to pick up where we left off and do the things we talked about.

"We planned to get married and start a family."

Danny spent four weeks in a coma at Nottingham's Queen's Medical Centre, before being moved to Derby.

Following a trial, security firm boss Mark Lowe was acquitted of causing grievous bodily harm to Danny. His nephew, doorman Paul Grzebisz, was cleared of perverting the course of justice.

Mr Lowe, 36, of Whitmore Close, Mickleover, and Mr Grzebisz, 35, of Field Lane, Chaddesden, denied the charges.

Miss Wosik, who is a nurse at Derby City General Hospital, said her partner remained profoundly disabled and still required help in being hoisted in and out of bed and all issues of personal care.

Since the incident, her family and Danny's family have been working to keep his burger van business afloat.

Miss Wosik said her partner had kept his bubbly personality despite the extent of his injuries.

She said: "One day I walked in to see him, I expected a thumbs-up, or something like that.

"I thought it was a bit hot so I opened the window. He said 'do me a favour, shut that window'.

"Dan's personality still shines through and he clearly recognises friends and family members and will laugh appropriately during our visits.

"Nonetheless, it is extremely upsetting to see someone you love so dependent on others."

Miss Wosik said that, with the help of Freeth Cartwright solicitors, she was investigating the possibility of bringing a civil claim against Saddlers Bar and Mr Lowe's firm, Progressive Security Limited.

She said: "There is no doubt that Dan, myself and our families will be living with the consequences of that evening for the remainder of our lives.

"Dan has been incredibly brave throughout his ordeal and cooperates fully with all of his treating specialists."

She said the medical team at King's Lodge – the unit where he is being treated – had been "fantastic" and were "dedicated in their care of Dan".

"They are currently trialling further technology to aid his recovery and help him maintain some independence," said Miss Wosik

"I am extremely grateful for all the kind messages of support received, and that we continue to receive.

" It is very much appreciated. All the positives play a major part in Danny's continued recovery."

Derbyshire police yesterday said they and the Crown Prosecution Service were still reviewing the evidence in the investigation into Danny's injuries.