One Million Star Judge Yuan Weiren Said To Be In “Vegetative State” After Hitting Head In Fall In 2020
Taiwanese singer-songwriter and judge of singing competition One Million Star, Yuan Weiren, is reportedly in a “vegetative state” after hitting his head during a fall in his Taitung home in 2020.
The 53-year-old, affectionately known as 'Xiao Pang Lao Shi' (or 'Little Fat Teacher' in English), slipped into a coma after the fall and has been bedridden ever since.
According to Taiwan reports, Weiren, who is estranged from his ex-wife, Taiwanese actress Lu Yuanchi, and their two kids, is currently living in Taitung and being cared for by his sister.
Due to his brain injury, he is unable to sit in a wheelchair and has to be confined to the bed.
Doctors have diagnosed him to be in a “vegetative state”. Though he can open his eyes, he cannot recognise anyone.
Weiren was spotted at a hospital two years ago
This is Weiren’s second health setback in recent years. In October 2018, he was in a coma for 62 days in a Shanghai hospital following surgery for a brain haemorrhage.
After being discharged from the hospital, he flew back to Taitung to recuperate at home. Though he lost around 20kg during his coma, he appeared to be “alert”.
Members of the Kuei Tien Culture and Art Foundation, who visited Weiren at his home then, said he was able to use his tablet and play songs on it.
In 2020, just when his condition was taking a turn for the better, he suffered a fall at his home and slipped into a coma.
According to Weiren’s sister, he tried to stand up from his wheelchair, but collapsed onto the ground because he was unable to support himself. His head hit the floor and he lost consciousness from the impact.
Celeb friends helping with medical expenses
His health battles have also left his family struggling financially.
As the family did not meet the criteria for healthcare subsidies, treatment and medical costs were taken care of by celeb pals like singers Phil Chang, You Hong Ming and Eric Moo.
Phil also started a "Little Fat Fund" crowdfunding campaign to raise money for Weiren’s medical expenses.
The Kuei Tien Culture and Art Foundation also makes a monthly donation of NT$10,000 (S$493).
Photos: Sinchew, PBE Media
