Former South African leader Nelson Mandela is in a stable condition, his granddaughter says, though he remains critical.
Ndileka Mandela said the 94-year-old’s family were taking comfort from messages of support from the public.
Meanwhile his daughter Makaziwe said he was “still there” and responding to touch.
South Africa’s first black president has been in hospital in Pretoria since 8 June with a lung infection.
His health has worsened in recent days, prompting current President Jacob Zuma to cancel a foreign visit. He has now arrived back at the hospital.
Emotional crowds have gathered outside, adding messages of support for Mr Mandela, known by his clan name Madiba.
Children released 94 balloons into the air in his honor.
Correspondents say South Africans now seem resigned to the prospect of his death.
“We don’t like seeing Mandela going through so much pain, he has had a tough time in his life and he’s gone through a lot of struggle. I think this struggle should get over sooner,” Khulile Mlondleni told Reuters news agency.
“We are all going to feel bad when he passes [away], but at the same time we will be celebrating his life. He has done so many great things for this country,” said 25-year-old John Ndlovu, quoted by the agency.
US President Barack Obama, who is in Senegal, described Mr Mandela as “a hero for the world”.
“His legacy will linger on through the ages,” he said.
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