Reuters AlertNet Lite - FACTBOX-Major events in Castro's health crisis

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FACTBOX-Major events in Castro's health crisis

28 Feb 2007 01:35:40 GMT
Source: Reuters

HAVANA, Feb 27 (Reuters) - Ailing Cuban leader Fidel Castro, who has not appeared in public for seven months, called in to his ally Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's radio talk show on Tuesday and said he was feeling better.

It was the first time the 80-year-old revolutionary had spoken on a live broadcast since emergency surgery forced him to relinquish power. Here are some of the main events in Castro's health crisis:

July 31, 2006 - Cuba announces that Fidel Castro had undergone complicated surgery to stop intestinal bleeding and was provisionally handing over power to his brother Raul.

Sept. 4, 2006 - Castro says he lost 41 pounds (20 kg) in a statement that warns Cubans his recovery will take time.

Oct. 28, 2006 - Cubans shocked by video images showing Castro looking weak and walking with difficulty.

Dec. 2, 2006 - Castro failed to show up at military parade and other celebrations of his postponed birthday, fueling speculation he was dying.

Dec. 26, 2006 - Dr. Jose Luis Garcia Sabrido, a Spanish surgeon who examined Castro, says the Cuban leader did not have cancer and was recovering from intestinal illness.

Dec. 30, 2006 - In a New Year message to Cubans, Castro says his recovery is "not a lost battle."

Jan. 15, 2007 - Spanish newspaper El Pais reports that Castro had three failed operations to treat diverticulitis, or inflamed bulges in his large intestine.

Jan. 30, 2007 - A six-minute video shows Castro had put on weight, but still looked frail, during a meeting with Chavez in Havana. Castro was seen taking a sip of orange juice.

Feb. 8, 2007 - Venezuelan Foreign Minister Ali Rodriguez said Castro was eating again.

Feb. 9, 2007 - Raul Castro, opening a book fair in Havana, says his brother is improving by the day, speaks frequently to other officials by telephone, is consulted on major matters of state but does not "interfere" in day-to-day governing.

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Last updated:Wed Feb 28 01:36:50 2007