Sen. Mark Kirk discusses his stroke rehabilitation

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Sen. Mark Kirk, a moderate Republican representing Illinois, released video on Tuesday that outlines the walking rehabilitation program he is currently undergoing.

Kirk was elected in 2010 to the Senate seat previously held by President Barack Obama. In January, the 52-year-old Senator suffered an ischemic stroke and had to receive surgery to relieve swelling around his brain.

“Thanks to the doctors, nurses and professionals of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago — the RIC — I am walking again,” he said, “leading to my hope to climb the 45 steps that my staff counted from the parking lot to the Senate front door to fight for the people of Illinois.”

Kirk first underwent three surgeries at Northwestern Memorial hospital. Doctors said his prospects for a full mental recovery were “pretty good.” However, they said it was going to be “very difficult” for him to use his left arm and left leg. He was moved to the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) on February 10.

“I want to thank everyone especially for the patience they have given me to recover from a big stroke,” Kirk said. “[And also] to the people of Illinois for granting me the honor to represent them in the United States Senate.”

Watch video, uploaded to YouTube on May 8, below: