Family 'optimistic' after Bush 41 falls, breaks neck bone

Ryan Carey-Mahoney | USA TODAY

Show Caption Hide Caption George H.W. Bush recovering from broken neck bone Former president George H.W. Bush is recovering after falling and breaking a bone in his neck at his Kennebunkport, Maine home.

Former president George H. W. Bush has broken a bone in his neck after a fall in his home in Kennebunkport, Maine, and remains hospitalized, his spokesman Jim McGrath confirmed via Twitter.

Granddaughter Jenna Bush Hager says the family is optimistic that he'll be fine. "Thanks for all your thoughts+prayers for our dear Gamps," she tweeted.

Bush, 91, is listed in fair condition at Portland's Maine Medical Center, hospital spokesperson Matt Paul said Wednesday evening. He'll likely have to wear a neck brace.

Maine Medical Center is just 45 minutes away from the Bushes' residence and is home to the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital, named for the former first lady.

The 41st president, who celebrated his birthday on June 12, was hospitalized for a week in December 2014 in Houston after being admitted for shortness of breath. He suffers from vascular Parkinsonism — a form of Parkinson's disease that requires him to use a wheelchair or scooter to get around.

The father of former President George W. Bush and current 2016 hopeful John Ellis "Jeb" Bush is the oldest living former president.

Ever the record-holder, he and wife Barbara are also the longest-married presidential couple, beating John and Abigail Adams. Their 70th anniversary was this past January.

Chelsea Clinton, daughter of Bill and Hillary, tweeted her well wishes for Bush's "speedy recovery."

Contributing: Catalina Camia, WCSH-TV, Desair Brown