Local News in Brief : Bane Back on the Job After Brief Paralysis

Assemblyman Tom Bane (D-Van Nuys), who was hospitalized for a month after suffering total paralysis and nearly dying, marked his healthy return to Sacramento Monday by presiding over the Assembly.

“I feel very glad to be back,” said the smiling Bane, 71, who, as assistant Speaker pro tem, wielded the gavel from the Assembly rostrum for an hour.

He was interrupted by other lawmakers shaking his hand or wishing him well. “You look fit, hail and hearty,” said Assemblyman Mike Roos (D-Los Angeles).

Bane said that a flu shot may have led to an upper respiratory infection which, in turn, resulted in a paralyzing condition known as Guillian-Barre syndrome.

His physician, Dr. S.M. Elfarra of Hollywood, said Bane was completely paralyzed until the impurities in his plasma were replaced during his stay at Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center.

While the condition can last for months, Elfarra said, Bane “improved dramatically to the point he’s very well and we’re looking toward a complete recovery.” Bane said that until he regains full strength in about two weeks, he will use a cane for walking.