Rep John Shimkus (R-Collinsville, Illinois) underwent surgery today to repair a condition called "severe mitral valve regurgitation". He is presently recovering in a St. Louis hospital and is expected to remain there for several days after which he will spend the rest of the Easter Congressional recess at home.
The mitral valve connects the heart's upper-left chamber (atrium) to the heart's lower-left chamber (ventricle). Mitral valve regurgitation, or mitral regurgitation, is a condition in which the mitral valve doesn't close tightly, allowing blood to flow backward in your heart.
Rep. Shimkus is expected to make a full recovery, although doctors believe it will be several months before he will be at full speed. Plane travel has been okayed by his doctors so that he might get back and forth to Washington and he fully expects to be pitching for his House baseball team on June 23.
It was noted in various publications and web sites that John did not cast a vote Monday in the Schiavo matter, but his pre-surgery tests and prep work at the hospital is the reason.
The family asks that if anyone desires updates on John's condition that they contact one of his offices rather than his home. This site will also have updates and information as often as possible. I know John, Karen and their three boys would appreciate prayers for a good recovery as well as prayers of thanksgiving for successful surgery. A February Chicago Sun-Times story about John can be read here.
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