Doctor: Kirk 'upgraded to fair condition'

January 30, 2012 (CHICAGO)

The Republican has been hospitalized for more than a week after suffering a stroke and undergoing surgery to remove part of his skull to relieve pressure on his brain.

Dr. Richard Fessler, MD, PhD, released a written statement, "Senator Kirk's recovery is continuing. He is alert, talking and responding well to questions. He has been upgraded to fair condition and we are very pleased with his progress."

Kirk's road to recovery will be long, according to Dr. Fessler. Doctors said he does not appear to have lost any of his cognitive skills but may not recover all of his physical capabilities on his left side.

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