Christa Pike's lawyers say she is coping with deep trauma after surviving her execution attempt

Christa Pike is recovering physically after Tennessee's failed attempt to execute her, but her attorneys say the emotional damage runs deep.

Physical recovery

In a new statement, her legal team said Pike is now eating normal meals and her lungs have cleared. The lawyers called her physical progress remarkable while warning that the lasting effects of the ordeal are still unknown.

Lasting trauma

According to the attorneys, Pike is living with severe psychological trauma from coming through a failed execution after believing she would die. They described fear, pain and uncertainty that have stayed with her since.

Her team also said she is having trouble with memory and focus.

Injuries described in court

At an emergency hearing on Wednesday, attorney Luke Ihnen told the court Pike has lost some movement in her arms and hands. He said her hands have swelled badly, comparing them to an inflated surgical glove.

Call for clemency

The legal team is still urging Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee to commute her death sentence to life without parole.

Pike was condemned for killing Colleen Slemmer, a classmate, in 1995.