Leslie moves to hospice care

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Leslie Cochran, a homeless man and icon of what "Keeps Austin Weird," was moved out of St. David's Hospital and into hospice care on Saturday.

Cochran, who has roamed the streets of Austin in a dress or thong for more than 20 years, is familiar to many Austin residents. In recent years, after a late-night beating downtown almost three yeras ago, Cochran has been less visible and his health has visibly faltered.

Two weeks ago, Cochran, 60, was found unconscious in a local parking lot, and he has been in critical condition for two weeks. Cochran underwent a brain procedure while at the hospital, but it appeared to make no significant difference in his condition. He was moved to hospice care, but friends aren't giving up hope.

"We've seen him on the brink before and come back," said friend Debbie Russell. "I don't think there are miracles left at this point, but we're trying to keep him comfortable and letting him decide what comes next."

Book People is collecting donations to cover Cochran's surgery and hospital stay.