Post by Taxigirl on Oct 23, 2003 9:57:54 GMT
Showman David Blaine is expected to have his first taste of solid food since ending his 44-day starvation stunt, his doctors have said.
He is making a "satisfactory recovery" in hospital, but has suffered sleepless nights and stomach cramps.
He is not likely to leave his London hospital until at least the weekend, his medical team have said.
Blaine began his recovery on Sunday after emerging from a box where he had stayed for six weeks without food.
Until now, he has been fed a nutritional drink packed with high levels of vitamins. The quantities have been gradually increased during his treatment.
The re-feeding process has been painful, but has gone to plan, his doctors said.
Results of his blood tests have also indicated "very satisfactory progress".
The medical team, led by clinical nutrition expert Professor Powell-Tuck, say they expect him to fully recover - but it may take several months.
Blaine, who began his career as a street magician, staged the public endurance test to push his body and mind to the limit, he said.
About 250,000 people visited him in the box near Tower Bridge in London, while 10,000 saw him walk free on Sunday.
Life-changing
A further 2.5 million people watched events live on Sky One.
He broke down on his exit, telling the crowd: "This has been one of the most important experiences in my life."
But he was also subjected to attacks and abuse during his 44 days, with members of the public throwing eggs, driving golf balls at the box and trying to cut his water supply.
On Thursday, Henry Cookson, 28, from Fulham, west London is due to appear at Tower Bridge Magistrates Court charged with criminal damage after allegedly firing balloons filled with pink paint at Blaine's box.
