IL Senator Returns To Capitol After Massive Stroke - KWQC-TV6 News and Weather For The Quad Cities -

IL Senator Returns To Capitol After Massive Stroke

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Cheri Bustos after Nov. election 2012. Cheri Bustos after Nov. election 2012.
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It was a big moment on the steps to the U.S Capitol Thursday morning. As new lawmakers were getting ready to be sworn-in, a Chicago area Senator returned to the chamber for the first time in almost a year.

With the help of a cane and his colleagues, Senator Mark Kirk (R) Ill., returned to the Senate after suffering a massive stroke on Jan. 21, 2012 . The crowd broke out in applause as he climbed the 45 steps and was greeted by Vice President Joe Biden.

The stroke affected the right side of Kirk's body and at age 52, left him close to death. His recovery over the past several months has included learning how to walk again. He'll have a reduced schedule while resuming duties in the Senate.

Another lawmaker from Illinois was sworn-in to the U.S. House Thursday. Former East Moline City Council member Cheri Bustos represents the Quad Cities and the Illinois 17th Congressional District. She defeated Republican Bobby Schilling in the November election.