‘Orange Is The New Black’ Michelle Hurst, Miss Claudette, Wakes From 16-Day Coma

Michelle Hurst, who plays Miss Claudette on the Netflix original hit-series “Orange is the New Black,” has awoke from a medically induced 16-day coma early Thursday morning. According to TMZ, Hurst's family said the accident occurred just before the holidays and she was placed in the 16-day coma so doctors could perform surgeries close to her spine. Details surrounding the events of the accident are still unclear. A fundraiser website also reports that Hurst is currently in the ICU at UNC Chapel Hill Hospital and is responsive.

The fundraiser page set up by cast members is also asking for donations to help Hurst sister pay for medical expenses. So far, the fundraiser has been a success -- raising $12,124 out of their $5,000 goal. The website has also been updating concerned fans on her condition saying, “She is progressing slowly, but progressing!” They also added, “"She is out of the coma (after 16 days) and has opened her eyes!”

Piper Kerman,whose memoir inspired “Orange is the New Black” wrote on Twitter, “Michelle Hurst, aka "Miss Claudette", was injured in a very bad car accident. More info @ fundraising page: http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/helping-our-orange-family/123744 … #OITNB.” While Natasha Lyonne shared her support via Twitter writing, "Please give what you can to help Michelle Hurst -- the amazing actress who plays Ms. Claudette on OITNB.”

“Orange is the New Black” season two is said to be wrapping up filming for the second season soon with a premiere date approaching closer and closer. It is unclear if Hurst character, a longtime inmate, has finished filming her scenes or how much airplay the actress will get in the second season. But obviously the priority is for Michelle Hurst to make a full recovery first and foremost. If you wish to help check out the fundraiser website here.