The Biggest Loser ninth-season contestant Sam Poueu reportedly fell four stories down a fire escape after celebrating a friend's birthday dinner, landing him at a San Francisco hospital in critical condition on September 3. 

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In a statement released to People, Poueu's family and fiancee Stephanie Anderson -- whom Poueu got engaged to last fall after they met while competing on the ninth edition of the NBC reality weight-loss competition, which aired in early 2010 -- said that following the dinner, Poueu went to the rooftop of another friend's apartment and accidentally locked himself out.

Poueu "attempted to climb down the fire escape ladder to drop down into the fourth floor balcony and slipped," Anderson -- who reportedly plans to wed Poueu in Spring 2012 -- and Poueu's family said.

"The San Francisco Fire Department responded within minutes thanks to a neighbor's immediate call."

While TMZ reported last week Poueu sustained a pelvic injury, punctured lung, broken leg, and torn ligaments, the statement confirmed he "suffered many serious internal injuries and a trauma to the right side of his head."

However, Poueu is reportedly getting progressively better.

"Sam has made positive and encouraging strides since his accident. Since being admitted to the hospital, Sam has stayed strong through three surgeries. To date, many of his internal injuries are on the healing mend," Poueu's loved ones explained in the statement, adding that although he is doing okay, his recovery will take time. 

"He still has a long road ahead and is already a true testament to the power of prayer. Our faith remains that God will heal him completely according to His will. We are thankful for the miracles we have already witnessed in his recovery and are thankful for the dedicated medical personnel attending to him."

In addition, Poueu's family thanked everyone for their thoughts and prayers and requested that they keep coming.

"Thank you again for all your prayers. Although he is in wonderful hands, we ask for your continued prayers and understanding as Sam and our families get through this difficult time. Praise God for our fighter Sam," they said. "We want to thank everyone for all of your prayers, thoughts, well wishes and support during this difficult time." 

Poueu finished as the ninth season's fifth runner-up. After beginning the competition at 372 pounds, he shed 142 and weighed-in at 230 pounds during the season's finale weigh-in.


About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski

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