Cedar City lawmaker returns to House after surgery

Rep. Bud Bowman, R-Cedar City, returned to the House and a standing ovation Tuesday after surgery last week to remove his gall bladder and one kidney.

"You are a tough guy," said House Speaker Greg Curtis, R-Sandy. "If it was me I'd still be curled up in the bed with the morphine drip in my hand."

Bowman said tests on possible cancer will come back Thursday — the day after lawmakers adjourn at midnight Wednesday. "I'm sure they will be fine," said Bowman, a retired Utah Highway Patrol trooper and one of the longest serving House members. He thanked House members for their prayers and support and having the honor to serve with them.

Bowman is not the only lawmaker who has battled health problems this session. Rep. Carl Duckworth, D-Magna, looks noticeably frail as he continues his fight against a rare form of cancer.

Both Bowman — who had open-heart surgery before the session began in January — and Duckworth have been in their seats and in committee meetings, enduring long hours despite their health problems.

The late Sen. Eddie Mayne, D-West Valley, died before this session started from lung cancer, and his wife, Karen, now sits in his Senate seat.