Giffords' astronaut husband awaiting doctors' OK

(AP) -- Space shuttle commander Mark Kelly is still awaiting doctors' final OK on whether his congresswoman wife can attend his launch in just under three weeks.

Kelly is married to Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. She's recuperating from a gunshot wound to the head.

The commander said Thursday he's still working out all the plans with NASA, in case his wife attends the launch. He's still debating what to do about the traditional prelaunch party for his guests.

Kelly told reporters at Florida's Kennedy Space Center he's "pretty hopeful" Giffords will make it to his April 19 liftoff. It will be Endeavour's final flight.

Kelly and his crew are at Kennedy for a practice countdown. Severe thunderstorms are interrupting their training.

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