Gary Coleman, 'Diff'rent Strokes' Star, is ailing

By April MacIntyre May 28, 2010, 17:14 GMT

Gary Coleman, courtesy of Wikipedia Commons, public domain

Gary Coleman, an American television star and personality, is ailing in a Utah hospital.

The former child TV star remains unconscious and on life support after suffering an intra-cranial hemorrhage at his home in Utah Wednesday, according to his publicist.

According to earlier reports, Coleman slipped into a coma after falling at his home in Utah.

ABC News reports that Coleman was moved to another hospital for more tests and treatment. By midday Thursday, Coleman had regained consciousness and was lucid but by the early afternoon "was slipping in and out of consciousness and his condition worsened."

Since Thursday afternoon, Coleman, 42, has been unconscious and on life support. His condition is too uncertain to allow any surgery.

"In recent years Gary Coleman has had difficulties, not only with health issues, but also with his personal and public life," his publicist tells ABC News. "At times, it may not have been apparent, but he always has had fond memories of being an entertainer and appreciates his fans for all their support over the years. At this critical moment, we can only ask for your thoughts and prayers for Gary to make a speedy and full recovery."

The actor also suffers from a congenital kidney disease and requires frequent dialysis.