Al Roker offers health update after leaving hospital
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By Lisa Respers France, CNN
Al Roker is home from the hospital, but won’t be returning to “Today” just yet.
The beloved weatherman offered a health update Monday via a video call into the show and said his recovery has been “a tough slog.”
“It’s been the hardest one yet, and you know I’ve had my share of surgeries,” Roker said. “It gives you a profound sense of gratitude for this outpouring of prayers and thanks. I’m a very fortunate person.”
He was twice hospitalized after a blood clot in his leg traveled to his lungs.
Roker hailed his “Today” colleagues for visiting him in the hospital and said that he is focusing on regaining his strength before he returns to work.
“You lose a certain amount of muscle mass for every week you’re in the hospital, and I was in the hospital for four weeks,” he said. “It’s just a certain amount of weakness. I’m doing physical therapy every day, occupational therapy. I’ve got to just get my strength back.”
Despite having “a number of issues,” Roker said, “I feel good, I feel strong, and every day I feel a little bit better.”
“I made dinner last night. I just feel like this is going to be a little bit of a slog, but there are a lot of people who have to deal with a lot more with a lot fewer resources,” Roker said. “I’m very fortunate and very blessed to be able to have the resources I’ve had.”
His wife, fellow journalist Deborah Roberts, recently celebrated Roker’s recovery.
“On this Thursday we are beyond thankful for beautiful, caring family and friends and the power of a brilliant medical team,” the caption in a photo showing her and Roker smiling together read. “Looking back at this long ago celebration with @alroker , I cherish the happy moments and look forward to so very many more. What a strong man. Blessed and grateful are the words defining our life today. #recovery #blessed #tbt #thanks #family #friends #caring.”
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