Gray on Barry's Operation

As Hamil R. Harris and Nikita Stewart reported in this morning's Washington Post, Councilmember Marion Barry is having a kidney transplant this afternoon. Doctors have said the operation has become fairly routine over the years, and Barry is optimistic enough to have scheduled a news conference for Saturday.

D.C. Council Chairman Vincent C. Gray released a statement last night on Barry:

"I am very happy that Councilmember Barry will undergo kidney transplant surgery Friday. He has been carrying a difficult work schedule, undergoing dialysis several times a week and trying to keep up with his Council duties. Despite his health, he has continued to serve the people of Ward 8 and residents across the city well.

"I am grateful for his kidney donor and thank her for her sacrifice.

"This surgery literally will give Mr. Barry a new lease on his life, both physically and emotionally. The people he serves and his colleagues on the Council all know of his tenacity and drive, and I am sure he will be anxious to get back to work as soon as possible."