Kirk to Return to Senate After Year Off Following Stroke

Illinois Sen. Mark Kirk has briefly returned to his Senate office for the first time since suffering a stroke last January.

His office says the Republican spent about a half-hour meeting with aides on Thursday in advance of his anticipated return to work when the new Congress convenes on Jan. 3.

The 53-year-old lawmaker's stroke limited movement on the left side of his body and affected his speech. He underwent emergency surgery and has since had treatment including vigorous experimental therapy with longer workouts than usual for stroke victims.

Last month, Kirk made his first public appearance since the stroke, climbing 37 floors inside Chicago's Willis Tower as part of a charity event.