A recent photo shows the senator as he recovers at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.
Durbin says he spoke with Kirk recently by phone, saying they had a good conversation.
He was asked if people should be concerned that Kirk hasn't made a public appearance.
"Let's give him a break," Durbin said. "This is life threatening in some circumstances. He made it through and he's coming back with a vengeance and a determination. Cut him some slack. Give him and his family and his doctors to get him in a position where he can face the press publicly and I know he will."
Durbin said he missed Kirk at his town meetings because the audience loves it when they disagree on issues.
