Daniel Hernandez, Gabrielle Giffords' Intern, Says He's Talked To Congresswoman

PHOENIX -- The man who won praise for going to Rep. Gabrielle Giffords aid immediately after she was shot says he has spoken to the injured congresswoman several times on the phone and is amazed by her recovery.

Daniel Hernandez tells the Arizona Republic that their most recent conversation was Wednesday.

He says the calls have included "short interactions and long interactions" but declined to be more specific out of respect for her privacy.

Giffords was critically wounded by a gunshot to the head 12 weeks ago during a shooting rampage in Tucson. Six people died and 12 other people were wounded.

Her doctors say she is making significant advances in speech, motor skills and life skills.

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Comments

[johuyik]

08:55 PM on 05/27/2011

As always, our thoughts and prayers go out to her and her family, as well as everyone who lost so much on that terrible day.

[ilovedessert]

06:47 PM on 04/15/2011

Gabbie is an amazing woman, more power to her!

[libertyanne]

03:36 PM on 04/13/2011

I'm glad she's making progress but I'm concerned they might be downplaying some negative aspects of her recovery. I'm no doctor I'm just citing human nature.

[oceanye]

04:15 AM on 04/24/2011

We will know soon enough. The fact she is alive and apparently progressing in her recovery is itself wonderful considering the catastrophic injury.

[BETGR627]

02:31 PM on 04/13/2011

Gabrielle - I am awed by your strength and integrity as you continue your healing process. Stay strong and come back to us soon!

[vinnieboiblue]

01:55 AM on 04/13/2011

It is always good to hear of someone who has been through so much, an making a recovery all the more meaningful. For this is a woman, who is not only of strong character but convictions an spirit. If only all politicians had the demeanor, grace an the will to live and appreciate it the way Gabrielle has.

[mudshark12]

11:52 PM on 04/12/2011

Gabrielle: Many people, myself included, have become admirer's of you and wish you a speedy recovery. To my delight my prayers for you are being answered and may you be back in full capacity very soon.

[Tom V Anderson]

06:17 PM on 04/11/2011

Can't wait to see you back down in the Mountain Empire Gabby, Ron & staff.
Abrazos, Tom with ABD

[janmarbol]

11:49 PM on 04/09/2011

Arizona is a republic? oh, wait... (J/K) had to reread that though...

Anyway, GREAT to hear Gabrielle Giffords is doing so well!!

[glassblower]

08:32 PM on 04/09/2011

Kudos to all of Gabby's therapists - physical therapists - occupational therapists - speech therapists - they should also all be recognized as an amazingly dedicated and inspirational bunch. The work these professionals perform with patients like Gabby is remarkable. I suggest that everyone go to one of these traumatic brain injury rehab centers for a brief visit. Walk through the common treatment areas and witness their work. Women (and all patients) like Gabby are truly special in their efforts. The staffs that work with them are equally special human beings too. I salute them!

[Red State Blues]

08:30 PM on 04/09/2011

Applause and encouragement from one of Gabby's constituents! Can't wait to see her on horseback again. Her will to survive and recover are an inspiration to all of us.

[suzeejc]

01:52 PM on 04/09/2011

Amazing woman. I look forward to her return though it may be a long time. This country needs more like her. We must never forget her.

[claudiam]

06:44 PM on 04/05/2011

My best to Gabby - you are always in my thoughts. Good luck and return soon. We need you in Arizona! claudiatucsonaz

[WarmGingerTea]

11:25 PM on 04/03/2011

So wonderful to hear some good news amidst all the craziness in the world .... I'll have to study up more on her progress and report on it to my my mother who is currently in rehab. Gabby must be an incredible inspiration for people struggling to recover from trauma!

[beebertoy]

12:36 PM on 04/03/2011

if this were a black woman instead of a jewish woman with dyed blonde hair do you think it would be getting all this attention? what about all the blacks that are shot in ghettos every day. has the media reported on even one of their lives???

[delfry]

02:26 PM on 04/03/2011

And if she were a Republican you wouldn't be making idiotic comments.

[Mark McKelvey]

09:29 PM on 04/03/2011

She's a public figure; not a random person. If she were Black it would be getting the exact same press coverage. Take your racist agenda and go away.

[mudshark12]

11:45 PM on 04/12/2011

Well said.

[RTIII]

10:31 AM on 04/03/2011

YAY!

I'm REALLY looking forward to her taking John McCane's seat when it comes up on the ballot not too long from now! She'll win In A LANDSLIDE!

[pseudonymXXVI]

11:11 AM on 04/03/2011

I think she'll be going after soon-to-be former Senator Kyl's seat.

[RTIII]

12:18 PM on 04/03/2011

That works for me, too - whichever come up next.

[Dunkleberger Karl]

04:21 PM on 04/13/2011

three qualifications,: dont sleep with staff members husband?
 
                                      dont have sex with staff member
 
                                      Lives in Nevada!
 
amazingly the last one is a big hump to climb for gabbie to take Kyl's seat!

[Mark McKelvey]

09:27 PM on 04/03/2011

You're sick.

[greysells2]

10:55 AM on 04/04/2011

How do you know that?