Johnson discharged from rehab hospital

Sen. Tim Johnson (D-S.D.) was discharged Friday from a rehabilitation hospital and is at home with his family. From there, he will continue therapy, meet with staff and work, his office announced Monday.

“It is wonderful to take this next step with family and friends,” Johnson said in a statement. “As I continue with my therapy, I also get more and more work from the office. The doctors tell me to pace myself and prepare for the long road, but I am determined to get back in the saddle.”

{mosads}Johnson suffered bleeding in the brain in December that was caused by arteriovenous malformation. His emergency surgery triggered speculation regarding whether Democrats would hold their slim Senate majority. Johnson has not cast any votes this year as he has recovered from the illness.

In February, he moved from George Washington University Hospital to a rehabilitation facility, where he received speech, physical and occupational therapy. The therapy will continue five days a week for “several hours” daily, according to Johnson’s office.

“[My wife] Barbara and I talk often of the day that we will be able to head home to South Dakota and thank everyone for their love and support,” Johnson said.