Senator Edward M. Kennedy, who is ill with brain cancer, collapsed at the Inauguration Day luncheon honoring President Obama, casting a pall over what had been a glorious celebration.The neurosurgeon, Dr. Edward Aulisi, said Senator Kennedy would remain in the hospital overnight for observation and be released in the morning. His wife, Victoria, and his son,Representative Patrick Kennedy, Democrat of Rhode Island, were with him at the hospital.Doctors say the Kennedy is awake and answering questions. They also blame todays medical incident on fatigue and say Kennedy should be released tomorrow morning. He's been battling a brain tumor.“After testing, we believe the incident was brought on by simple fatigue,Senator Kennedy is awake, talking with family and friends, and feeling well.” the doctor said in a statement.
A shaken President Obama spoke briefly of Mr. Kennedy in remarks to the roomful of legislators at the luncheon. “Right now, part of me is with him,this is a joyous time, but also a sobering time. Our prayers are with him and his wife, Vicki.” said the new president.
President Obama went to Mr. Kennedy “immediately, to be helpful” after realizing that he had become ill.
Democratic Senator Robert Byrd also left the luncheon for medical reasons,but his office says he's doing fine. A spokesman says Byrd was sitting with Kennedy and is "very concerned about his close friend." Sen. Edward M. Kennedy has been wheeled out ofthe Capitol on a stretcher after having a seizure at the Inaugural Luncheon.
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