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WGDB: Boozman Family Hopeful As Senator Begins Recovery


The family of Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., is hopeful and looking forward to the next stage of the senator’s recovery following his emergency heart surgery for an acute aortic dissection Tuesday.

“We appreciate the prayers, kind words and well-wishes that have come from Arkansans and people all across the country,” the family said in a statement. “Our number one priority is making sure John makes a full recovery.”

The junior senator from Arkansas remains hospitalized as doctors continue to monitor him, according to the family. Boozman is awake and responsive, and doctors are pleased with the progress he has made.

Boozman, 63, was taken to the hospital early Tuesday morning, by his wife Cathy, after suffering pain in his chest and shoulder. At the time he alert, responsive and in good spirits despite the discomfort and pain, the family said.

After running several tests, doctors diagnosed Boozman with an acute aortic dissection and he was admitted for immediate surgery. The surgeons who performed the operation, which lasted several hours, said that Boozman responded well to the procedure.

His family has been with him and they has expressed gratitude for outpouring of support.

“We are grateful for the excellent care the doctors, nurses and medical staff are providing,” the statement said. “They are amazed at how well he has responded and we are anxious for him to begin the next phase of recovery. We know that if John had it his way he would be right back on the road in Arkansas, so the difficult part will be making sure he gets the rest he needs to get better.”

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