Sen. Ted Kennedy seizure OBAMA DAY 01-20-09

Democratic Sen. Edward Kennedy was taken to hospital Tuesday after he collapsed at a luncheon for U.S. President Barack Obama. Sen. Orrin Hatch, who accompanied Kennedy to the ambulance, said it "looked like a seizure" had stricken the brother of late president John F. Kennedy. Kennedy, who turns 77 next month, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last May. Later in the afternoon, Kennedy was conscious and talking to medical staff at the Washington Hospital Center, The Associated Press reported.

Democratic Sen. Christopher J. Dodd said that Kennedy did have a seizure during the luncheon, but appeared to be feeling better even as he was taken to the ambulance, The New York Times reported on its website."The good news is, he's going to be fine," Dodd said. Meanwhile, Democratic Sen. Robert Byrd was also taken from the luncheon, however, it's still not clear if his departure was due to a medical issue. The 91-year-old senior senator from West Virginia has seemed frail and unhealthy over the past few weeks.

During an address to members of Congress and others, Obama said his prayers were with Kennedy and his family. "I know that while I was out of the room, concern was expressed about Teddy," said Obama, adding that Kennedy continues to be a long-serving advocate for democracy and justice. Obama said that Kennedy "was there when the voting rights act passed, along with John Lewis." Obama added that Kennedy has been "a warrior for justice."

Kennedy was seen being taken from the Statuary Hall in the Capitol by wheelchair, CNN reported. Kennedy suffered a seizure in May 2008 and later underwent surgery in June for a malignant brain tumour. After undergoing weeks of chemotherapy and radiation treatment last year, he began to make more public appearances."And so I would be lying to you if I did not say that right now a part of me is with him," said Obama of Kennedy. "And I think that's true for all of us. This is a joyous time. But it's also a sobering time. And my prayers are with him."

*With files from The Associated Press

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• OBAMA
• DAY
• SEIZURE
• HOSPITAL
• PRESIDENT
• SENATOR

[Beserjee]

So sad. You shouldn't say mean things about him.

[bullirish]

I hope he passes on!

[bjsarr]

still has a heck of a boston accent

[bpyjktgiuk]

Brain chip - CHECK MY SITE

[Dealit707]

The Boston Herald has recently reported that Teddy was drinking before his collapse.

All I know is that there will be a lot a drinking and partying when this socialist pantload kick the bucket.

[CaseRed0605]

What a bedside manner.

[howe5529]

how many people does it take to get his fat ass in the ambulance

[duelo99]

LOL- I know I'm praying for his quick end. He caused too much damage to this country. I'll be glad to see the drunk-driving-Maryjo killing bastard past over to the other side.

Hope its down rather than up!

[508307]

Are you old enough to remember how he left Maryjo to drown? I dont want the Bastard to die. I want him to live & suffer

[Dealit707]

I hate to burst your ballons, but Teddy is not going to be O.K.. Take a good look at him. Does he look O.K. to you? He should be at home in bed, praying for a quick end.

[AmX14]

I hope he's going to be ok.

[bullirish]

Sounds good to me. They shouldn't have spammed you!