Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen is returning home after falling from a horse and sustaining injuries over the weekend. Despite being in the hospital over Christmas, Pillen is in high spirits and eager to recover. He underwent surgery to stop bleeding in his spleen, suffered cuts to his kidney, a partially collapsed lung, and a fracture in one of his vertebrae.

Pillen underwent a successful rib fixation procedure to stabilize his seven broken ribs and prevent complications. The surgery lasted approximately three hours and restored normal respiratory function to his left chest. The governor is expected to return to his office activities next week, according to his office.

The governor’s medical team at the University of Nebraska Medical Center praised Pillen for being an ideal patient and looking forward to returning home with his family and friends. The surgery to stabilize his ribs was successful in helping him heal in the long term and making him more comfortable while breathing.