Sombre outlook for Dutch Prince Friso

Doctors who have been treating Dutch Prince Johan Friso at a hospital in Innsbruck, Austria, said on Friday that the prognosis for his recovery is bleak. The prince has suffered severe brain damage after he was trapped under an avalanche while skiing one week ago.

He may never emerge from his coma. Even if he does regain consciousness, the doctors say any rehabilitation will take months if not years. The bad news about the Prince has shocked the country. During the week since the accident occurred, there has been hope that Friso could recover. That hope has now all but vanished.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte told Queen Beatrix by telephone that the Netherlands sympathizes deeply with the royal family. The Queen, for her part, said the family has been moved by all the reactions and comfort they have received from the Dutch public.

Sombre outlook for Dutch Prince Friso | Radio Netherlands Worldwide