Alabama state Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, is making progress after suffering a heart attack in South Korea, according to a statement from the senator’s brother, Dr. Gilbert Melson.

Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, sent the statement at the request of Gilbert Melson.

“I arrived with several  family members this morning [July 29th] in Seoul,” Gilbert Melson said. “We were able to meet with the treating physicians at the hospital and were encouraged by what we were told. Tim is making steady but guarded progress. Such progress will need to continue to be made before before Tim is able to travel home.

“We are appreciative for the excellent care Tim has received at both hospitals. While his condition remains very serious and critical, the family is most grateful for the prayers of many Alabamians and beyond. We ask for your continued prayers.”

Melson was on a trip with other lawmakers to recruit businesses and STEM teachers when he fell ill, according to news reports. Orr, who was also on the trip, administered CPR to Melson, WAFF reported.

Ellie Melson, the senator’s daughter, wrote in a Facebook post that Melson suffered a cardiac arrest, which means his heart stopped beating, Alabama Reflector reported.

“They were able to resuscitate him, but he is in critical condition. I wish we had more info — the information we have beyond this is minimal,” she wrote Thursday night.

“As you can imagine, the language barrier and time difference has been a challenge. Please pray for the team who is caring for him and that we make the best decisions for him in the upcoming days/weeks/months.”

Melson was elected to the Senate in 2014. He is a retired anesthesiologist and a clinical researcher. Melson is perhaps best known in the State House for sponsoring the bill in 2021 to legalize medical marijuana in Alabama.