Former President George H.W. Bush, 92, and his wife Barbara, proud Houstonians, made his Super Bowl LI appearance Sunday a "goal" to get healthy for it, and are "fired up" for his ceremonious participation in the coin toss, a family spokesman told the Houston Chronicle.
"President Bush is the most goal-oriented person you can meet," spokesman Jim McGrath told the paper Sunday. "When he sets a goal out there on the horizon, it's almost like he wills himself to achieve it.
"They feel great. They've been taking it easy since they've both been discharged from the hospital – saving up their strength. They're just fired up and didn't want to overexert themselves and risk not being able to make it. They're so focused on this and so proud of their hometown."
The 41st first family missed President Donald Trump's inauguration because of illnesses. George H.W. Bush was hospitalized in Houston for two weeks with a severe case of pneumonia, while wife Barbara was hospitalized for bronchitis.
"I approached them back in December and they were very enthusiastic about wanting to participate," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in his annual state of the league address Wednesday. "Obviously, you all know both of them had a little bit of a setback health-wise recently. I heard from both of them and they're excited and anxious to be here. We're honored to have them. I think it'll be a great way to start the game."
The Bushes will appear at midfield just before the 6:30 p.m. ET kickoff.
"If he's feeling spryly enough to appear at the Super Bowl, it's just cause for good cheer," Rice University history professor Douglas Brinkley told the Chronicle.
"His legacy is very large, and he's truly an American icon who transcends party and is just beloved by the public at large. He represents the great American traditions of camaraderie, a gentleman-like demeanor, finding humor in everyday life, family values and love of local community. He embodies much of what people think is the best of America."
The Super Bowl has become one of the most American events on the calendar. The NFL championship pits the New England Patriots vs. Atlanta Falcons at NRG Stadium in Houston.
"They were so proud of Houston and how the community has come together to take on this massive challenge of hosting the Super Bowl," McGrath told the Chronicle. "He's so proud of the city and the thousands of volunteers – all kinds of points of light in their own regard – who have helped pull it off in magnificent fashion."
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