Schmid's mother said no one "specifically" asked if her son would be a donor, but they "subtly talk to you about quality of life."
"At some point, I knew we had to make some sort of decision, and I kept praying," said Regan.
The MRI came back with encouraging news during the day and by evening Schmid "inexplicably" followed the doctors' commands, holding up two fingers.
"It was like fireworks all going off at the same time," said Spetzler.
Today, Schmid -- his speech clear and sounding upbeat -- told ABCNews.com, "I feel fine. I'm in a wheelchair, but I am getting lots of help."
