The Hill News

Rep. Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) took to Twitter on Tuesday after hearing the news that his critically injured colleague Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) was able to give a thumbs-up signal.

"Incredible that Rep Gabby Giffords gave a thumbs up in hospital," he said. "Her great spirit is carrying her through this tragedy."

Representatives from the University Medical Center in Tucson, Ariz., said Tuesday that while Giffords's recovery has been promising so far, her future remains in question.

"This kind of injury, the survival, let alone recovery [rate], is abysmal," said Dr. Michael Lamole, UMC's chief of neurosurgery. "I do want to underscore the seriousness of this injury and the fact that we all have to be patient."

Read other lawmakers' reactions to the shooting here.