As fans continue to remain optimistic about Randy Travis' condition following his diagnosis with viral cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure, and subsequently suffering a stroke last year, Neal McCoy says his friend still has a long road ahead of him.

“He looks great, but is still struggling to use both of his hands,” McCoy tells People magazine (quote via Contact Music). “I don’t know if he’ll ever fully recover, but he’s a tough guy with a work ethic.”

A photo of Travis, who has mostly stayed out of the public eye since his illness, surfaced online in January, giving fans hope that the 'Three Wooden Crosses' singer was recovering well.

Only last month, the 54-year-old made his first public appearance, when he joined McCoy backstage in Dallas, Texas before a Smiles For Life concert. Although Travis was in a wheelchair, he seemed in good spirits.

One person who is optimistic about Travis' return to country music is his own father, Harold Traywick.

“He’s getting his voice back now, little by little,” he boasts.

Travis' latest album, 'Influence Vol. 1: The Man I Am,' was released in October. Purchase the album here.

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