Governor improving but still has ‘pain issues’

CARSON CITY -- Gov. Jim Gibbons is feeling "lots better" but remained in the intensive care unit at a Reno hospital Thursday, a staff member said.

"He is much better, but he still has significant pain issues," said Daniel Burns, his spokesman. "We just chatted. He is doing what the nurses and doctors tell him. He receives excellent care."

Gibbons, 65, was operated on Wednesday afternoon at the Renown Regional Medical Center to repair several breaks in his pelvis. He was injured Tuesday afternoon when he was thrown from the horse he was trying to mount at a ranch near Pyramid Lake.

His doctor said Wednesday that Gibbons faces several months of rehabilitation.

Burns said Thursday he does not know when the governor will be released. His condition was listed as stable.

Gibbons continues to receive cards and messages from well-wishers, Burns said. Gibbons spoke briefly by telephone Thursday with Danny Tarkanian, the unsuccessful Republican candidate for U.S. Senate.

Earlier this year, Tarkanian agreed to lead the governor's move to circulate a petition to require collective bargaining sessions to be conducted in public.

Gibbons lost the June primary, and his term as governor will end at the end of the year.

Burns said Gibbons probably will rehabilitate in the Governor's Mansion, where he would be able conduct board meetings by telephone.

Gibbons is chairman of several boards, including the state Transportation Board. Its Thursday meeting was canceled.