Barbara Bush Undergoes Heart Surgery

Bush family spokesman Jim McGrath said that the surgery was scheduled last week after she experienced shortness of breath. Doctors noted that Barbara Bush' aortic valve had begun to harden.

The surgery replaced her valve with a valve from a pig. Barbara Bush is expected to be released from the hospital in 7 to 10 days.

Jean Becker, chief of staff for former President George H.W. Bush, said:

"In fact, she is awake. We, of course, naively wanted to keep it quiet -- Mrs. Bush did. She thought there was too much fuss the last time."

The "last time" she is speaking of was the surgery Barbara Bush had in November for a perforated ulcer.

Former president George H. W. Bush said:

"I am very impressed with and grateful to the wonderful team of doctors and nurses at The Methodist Hospital who have helped Barbara. We have every confidence she is in the best hands."