Former President Ford Suffers Minor Stroke

— -- Former President Gerald Ford has suffered a minor stroke and is in stable condition at a Philadelphia hospital. But doctors are optimistic about the prognosis of the 87-year-old GOP statesman and predict he will make a full recovery.

ABCNEWS.comAug. 2— Former President Gerald Ford had at least one mild

stroke recently and is in stable condition at a Philadelphia hospital, doctors said today.

The 87-year-old Ford “probably had a stroke maybe two days ago and had another little one” overnight, said Dr. Robert Schwartzman, head of the neurology department at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia, where Ford had been attending the Republican National Convention.

Ford is in stable condition, with weakness in his left arm, but he is awake and aware, Schwartzman said. He is experiencing some dizziness and lack of mobility, and his speech is slightly slurred.

The former president may have suffered damage to the balance center in his brain, the doctor said. But Ford’s prognosis is good, Schwartzman added. “I think he’ll do very well.”

Ford will need medication and will probably remain in the hospital about five days, doctors said. Typically in cases like this one, patients undergo physical therapy and a series of diagnostic tests, doctors said.

Wants to Go Home

Calvin McDowell, the former president’s spokesman, says Ford is already anxious to leave the hospital.

“He’s very alert and ready to go home,” McDowell said.

Ford’s wife Betty is “very upset … upset like anybody” would be on hearing the news, Schwartzman said.

Republican presidential candidate George W. Bush spoke to Mrs. Ford by telephone and conveyed to her “his prayers and love” to Ford and his family. “America loves Gerald and Betty Ford for their integrity, wisdomand compassion,” he said in a statement.

President Clinton also spoke with Mrs. Ford by telephone andexpressed his concern, White House spokesman Elliot Diringer said.