CHICAGO - U.S. Senator Mark Kirk updated the people of Illinois on his progress recovering from his debilitating stroke in January 2012 by releasing a new video Saturday. The video records physical therapy sessions, office staff oversight, meetings with congressional colleagues while pushing forward with political issues about which he's concerned and to which he's committed.
Illinois Review has sometimes disagreed with Senator Kirk, and we've often expressed criticism. But we greatly admire his fortitude, his determination and his tenacity in pushing back from a life-changing physical crisis that could happen to any of us at any time.
Senator Kirk's staff has stepped up to the challenge in an exemplary way. His competent staff choices indicate the senator's desire to run a professional office - something the people of Illinois deserve, and a rare contrast to the state's typical less-than-stellar political leadership.
We continue to pray for Senator Kirk's physical and emotional health to strengthen and we stand behind him, cheering him on as he awakens the public to the needs of those who've survived strokes, as well as their families.
Perhaps we jaded and cynical Illinoisans can find it within ourselves to unite around Senataor Kirk with a spirit of renewed human compassion. Such a development would dramatically raise the hope for a full recovery for our terribly debilitated state and nation.
If Senator Kirk can do it, so can we - together.
