Hero Huntingdon train worker wakes from coma
His wife has shared the wonderful news that Sam woke up briefly yesterday
The family of train crew member Samir “Sam” Zitouni, who was seriously injured while protecting passengers, have shared a hopeful update on his condition.
Sam, 48, remains in hospital in a stable but critical condition after being credited with helping to save multiple lives when passengers came under threat.
Known affectionately as Sam, he has worked as a customer experience host with LNER for more than 20 years — a role that primarily involves providing onboard catering.
In an update posted on GoFundMe by organiser Gemma Royce on Thursday (7 November), Sam’s family expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from the public.
“Sam’s family continue to be deeply grateful for all of your kind messages, generosity, and support,” Gemma wrote.
“His wife has shared the wonderful news that Sam woke up briefly yesterday, and she was able to speak with him for a short time.
"This is a truly positive step forward, though there is still a long journey ahead in his recovery.”
The family added that they were “immensely proud of Sam and his courage.”
“The police called him a hero on Saturday evening, but to us — he’s always been a hero,” they said in an earlier statement.
Messages of support have poured in for Sam and his family as his recovery continues.
Donations to assist his loved ones are being collected through a GoFundMe page set up by colleagues and friends.