Michael Schumacher's wife has released an emotional statement ahead of his 50th birthday (Image: GETTY ) The German legend’s health has been a closely guarded secret since he suffered catastrophic brain injuries in a skiing accident in 2013. But just a few days before his milestone birthday, his wife, Corinna Schumacher, released an emotional statement to thank her husband's fans for their support. She reassured his supporters that he is in "good hands" and the family are doing "everything humanly possible to help him". Related articles Michael Schumacher used to ‘freak out’ during public appearances Michael Schumacher's former boss says family ‘made right decision' She said: "We are pleased and wholeheartedly thank you for celebrating Michael's 50th birthday with him and with us. "You can be sure that he is in good hands and we are doing everything humanly possible to help him." Schumacher's recovery and current condition has been shrouded in secrecy - with official updates few and far between. And in the rare statement, Mrs Schumacher urged fans to respect the family's privacy. Michael Schumacher's wife urged fans to respect his privacy (Image: GETTY ) You can be sure that he is in good hands and we are doing everything possible to help him Corinna Schumacher She said: "Please understand if we follow Michael's wishes and leave as sensitive a topic as health, as ever, in privacy. At the same time, we thank you very much for your friendship and wish you a happy and healthy year in 2019." Schumacher's career saw him amass a record seven world titles and the most amount of wins (91) ever for a driver. Mrs Schumacher urged fans to remeber the driving legend for his "victories, his records and his jubliation". She added: "Michael can be proud of what he has achieved, and so are we! That's why we remember his success The German driver was placed in a medically induced coma for nearly six months but then in June 2014 was discharged from hospital and has since been receiving medical care at home near Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Michael Schumacher’s medical bills are said to cost £115,000 a week from a team of 15 nurses and physicians.All rights reserved for this news site express.co.uk and under his responsibility