Dr. Nelson Mandela now on life support

Mandela, 94, considered the founding father of South Africa's multiracial democracy, has been hospitalized since June 8 for a recurring lung infection.South Africans lit candles outside the hospital where the anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela lay Wednesday night following a report that the former president was on life support.

As the nation remained on edge, police barricaded the street leading to the hospital's main entrance. Well-wishers hung balloons, stuffed animals and messages of support along the wall, and crowds hovering nearby sang "Where is Mandela?"

"We need you!," one sign read. "We love you tata, get well soon!" said another, referring to Mandela by the Xhosa word for father.

We sincerely hope these messages get to him and make him feel better.