Barbara Bush 'doing great' after transfer

HOUSTON, March 8 (UPI) -- Barbara Bush, wife of former President George H.W. Bush, is "doing great" after being transferred out of intensive care in Houston, an official says.

Methodist Hospital spokeswoman Gale Smith said the former first lady appeared to be recovering nicely since being moved Saturday, three days after open heart surgery, CNN said.

"She is still in good condition and in great spirits," Smith said. "She's been up and about, walking and eating, just being a great patient. She's still going great."

Bush, 83, was hospitalized after experiencing shortness of breath, leading to surgery to replace a hardened aortic valve.

Smith told CNN Bush should be recovered enough from Wednesday's operation to leave the hospital within the next week.

"Her medical team still is very happy with her progress, and obviously they are monitoring her day-by-day," she said.