Sen. Kirk moved to rehab

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CHICAGO, Feb. 11 (UPI) -- Illinois Sen. Mark Kirk has been transferred to a rehabilitation facility in Chicago for continuing care following a stroke last month, doctors say.

Dr. Richard L. Harvey said Friday he would oversee Kirk's care at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. Harvey is the medical director of the institute's Center for Stroke Rehabilitation.

Kirk, 52, has undergone several surgeries at Northwestern Memorial Hospital after his stroke, including one operation to reattach a section of his skull that was removed to relieve pressure caused by swelling on the right side of his brain.

Doctors told the Chicago Tribune they expect Kirk to regain his mental faculties. However, the paralysis on the right side of his body could be lasting.

Kirk's family released a statement saying, "As Mark begins the next phase in his recovery, we want to thank the thousands of people around the state, the nation and the world who have called, written notes, sent flowers and offered their thoughts and prayers. Mark's drive and spirit are stronger than ever and we know he will give 110 percent in the days ahead."