Erickson sustained severe head injuries when he was struck by a van while bicycling last week and has been listed in very critical condition. The accident fractured Erickson's skull and caused two blood clots.

"The ventilator tube was taken out this morning (Wednesday) and Paul responded very well," says Rick Carlson, Erickson's pastor at the Roseville (Minnesota) Covenant Church, who has been providing regular updates on Erickson's progress.

"This is a critical step toward recovery and Joan and the family are very thankful," Carlson says in his email update. "Paul is more alert today than yesterday. He has tried to nod his head, which is difficult because he is still wearing a collar. Joan said that he definitely hears and recognizes the family. He continues to blink his eyes to answer questions and is able to move his left arm and hand very well. The right side is still very weak." A feeding tube should help Erickson regain strength and better cope with treatment of his diabetes, Carlson notes.

"A large stack of email greetings was delivered to Paul's room today from all over the world," Carlson says. "Cari (daughter) sat beside Paul and read each of them, crying the whole time. Joan is so appreciative of the love and care that has been shown by everyone.

Carlson is serving as a contact person for the family and can be reached by email at rickcarlson56@msn.com or by phone at the church, 651-633-5526. In addition to the online update capability, cards or messages for the Ericksons also can be sent in care of the Roseville Covenant Church, 2865 N Hamline Ave., Roseville, MN, 55113.

(Editor's note: to keep abreast of Erickson's condition on a regular basis, visit a special update website at Paul Erickson where visitors can not only read the updates, but also send email messages to the family and sign the guestbook.)

To read earlier accounts of the accident, please see:

Erickson in Critical But Stable Condition

Former Superintendent in Serious Bicycle Accident