Gary Coleman has slipped into a coma and is currently on life support after suffering a head injury at his Utah home this week, the actor's spokesman announced Friday morning. The former 'Diff'rent Strokes' star fell and hit his head on Wednesday and was taken to the ICU at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center. John Alcantar, a spokesman for the actor, said in a statement that Coleman was at first "conscious and lucid," but that his condition quickly took a turn for the worse.
"We are saddened to announce that since mid-afternoon, Mountain Time, on May 27, 2010, Mr. Coleman has been unconscious and on life support."
Alcantar said Coleman suffered a brain hemorrhage.
In thanking his supporters, Alcantar said Coleman "always has had fond memories of being an entertainer and appreciates his fans for all their support over the years."
He added: "At this critical moment, we can only ask for your thoughts and prayers for Gary to make a speedy and full recovery."
Earlier on Thursday, Coleman's wife, Shannon Price, released a brief statement to KUTV asking for support, saying: "Gary was taken to the hospital with a serious medical problem yesterday, we are asking for everyone's prayers at this time. We hope those prayers are answered and that Gary will be able to recover and return home soon."
Coleman's health has been an issue of late, as the 42-year-old actor has suffered two seizures this year. The first occurred on January 6, while the second took place in late February while he was on the set of 'The Insider.' During the 911 call from the latter incident, an 'Insider' staffer who called it in told the operator, "We have someone having a seizure right now on our stage ... we just need someone as soon as possible."
The actor has also undergone two kidney transplants -- one in 1973 and one in 1984 --- to help curb the kidney disease nephritis, which he has battled for decades. It's that disease which is responsible for stunting his growth.
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