A well-known formerly homeless citizen of Austin made some progress Tuesday evening at University Medical Center at Brackenridge.
According to a Brackenridge spokeswoman, Leslie Cochran was in fair condition Tuesday evening. He was reportedly in a semi-vegetative state, after suffering from a brain aneurism.
A community activist had said he had no brain activity.
"He's barely with us now," Texas Civil Liberties Union President Debbie Russell had said only hours before Cochran began to recover. "Nothing short of a miracle will turn the inevitable tide."
Though Cochran is now conscious, some believe he'll have to live in some sort of medical facility.
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Loving Leslie
News 8's Bob Robuck shows us the tremendous outpouring of well-wishes.
 
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"I'd rather see that, than not have Leslie around anymore at all to pontificate on local politics," Russell later said. "To tell us some of the truths that are so often buried and to continue to stand as an icon in this town for freedom and expression and his gift to the community."
Reports indicate that on Oct. 3, a taxi driver found Cochran close to Interstate-35 and Oltorf Street. After finding Cochran collapsed on the street, the driver called emergency responders and police.
A lot of Austinites had wondered what happened to Leslie since the cab driver found him. The hospital finally managed to locate a family member, who allowed authorities to release more information.
Cochran has been frequently seen on and around the Sixth Street area. He used to live in the Pacific Northwest and at one time worked as a truck driver frequently traveling up and down the West Coast.
The Austin celebrity is known for his flamboyant dress, as he paraded around Austin streets and took photos with passersby.
"I hope he makes a full recovery so he can get back out there in his zebra thong and make more people happy," supporter Mike Mann said.
Cochran also made a bid for mayor about six years ago and, in recent years, was the subject of iconic refrigerator magnets.
A vigil in Cochran's honor took place Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Red River Street between 12th and 15th streets at the Brackenridge hospital driveway.
