Update on Senator Tim Johnson

Here's the latest statement, released yesterday, from the office of Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD), who suffered a brain hemorrhage in December:

"Senator Tim Johnson has been upgraded from critical condition to fair condition. He is breathing independently and no longer requires the assistance of a ventilator," said Vivek Deshmukh, MD, neurosurgeon at the George Washington University Hospital.

A tracheotomy tube remains in his neck to guard his airway. It is anticipated that Senator Johnson will be moved from the intensive care unit to in-patient rehabilitation later this week.

"This is wonderful news. Tim has come a long way and we have a long way yet to go, but we celebrate each victory. For me, it is like watching a miracle unfold each day," said Mrs. Barbara Johnson, wife of U.S. Senator Tim Johnson.

We'll keep you posted.