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WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The vice president of the Navajo Nation is recovering after being bit by a brown recluse spider.
Rex Lee Jim had been hospitalized for more than four weeks in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Jim says the spider's venom spread like wildfire through his lower left leg. He says doctors were able to surgically remove the infection, dead tissue, ligaments and muscles, avoiding leg amputation.
Jim says the hospital stay also revealed that he has diabetes. He encouraged Navajos to eat healthy, exercise and get annual checkups.
Tribal spokesman Rick Abasta says Jim is recovering with rest and physical therapy. Jim is expected to be at the Northern Navajo Nation Fair in Shiprock, New Mexico, this weekend.
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