Encouraging Alijah Arenas progress shows moment of fortitude and selflessness

It says a lot about a person in the way in which they handle tragedy. Alijah Arenas needed to be placed into a medically induced coma, and the Trojan community waited for any signs of optimism or encouraging news from the hospital for the 18-year-old.

In a statement released by the family, as shared by Fox Sports 1 panelist Rachel Nichols, the 18-year-old is now 'out of his coma and has shown significant signs of progress.' The screenshot also says that those closest to Arenas have been by his side and continue to ask for support for the high school senior.

The USC commit is still intubated, but the family is encouraged by his early signs of awareness. The statement mentioned that Arenas was able to recall the smoke. His motor functions also allow him to write at this point. What came first, while being surrounded by loved ones, concerned for his well-being, shows what type of person he is.

Display of character

'Did anyone get hurt?' was Arenas' immediate thought and what he wrote down after coming out of the coma. To have a selfless, others-first mindset after going through something like that only shows what kind of person the young adult is. For someone to regain their bearings and have their first form of communication be to ask about the well-being of anyone else who may have gotten injured shows the true character of the Chatsworth student.

Few are placed in a position like this. There isn't a chance to prepare for moments like these. Arenas' coming to, and having this be what comes first to his mind, is a true testament to who he is.

As the statement concluded, the USC and wider community will remain steadfast in their support and showings of encouragement as Arenas continues to recover.