In an update to an initial report last night that Clarence Clemons suffered a serious stroke, the latest news has Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band saxophone player showing signs of improvement after suffering partial paralysis. He is currently responsive in stable, but serious condition at a Florida hospital.

Fox 5 News in New York reported that the stroke has left Clemons paralyzed on the left side of his body. In addition, the Springsteen fan site Backstreets.com revealed that Clemons in is a "fight for his life" after undergoing two brain surgeries related to the stroke. However, in a more recent update, a close friend tells the site that Clemons' "vital signs are improving" and that "he's squeezing with his left hand."

"The next five days will still be critical," says the friend. "But he's a fighter."

Showbiz 411, which was the first outlet to break the news of Clemons' stroke on Sunday evening, is now reporting that "members of the E Street Band were advised to get down to Florida as soon as possible."

The 69-year-old Clemons is an original member of the E Street Band, having performed with Springsteen for the past 40 years. His memorable sax solos can be heard in such classic tracks as 'Born To Run,' 'Jungleland' and 'The Ties That Bind,' among other tunes.

Watch Clarence Clemons Play 'Jungleland' with Bruce Springsteen

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