President Obama says he is keeping Nelson Mandela in his thoughts and prayers as the former president of South Africa recovers from his latest health scare.
Mandela, the first Black president of South Africa, has been hospitalized for a recurring lung infection, his third hospitalization in recent months.
"He is a hero, I think, to all of us," Obama said after meeting with African leaders on Thursday. "We will be keeping him in our thoughts and prayers."
USA Today reports:
Obama noted that Mandela has beaten previous physical challenges, and will hopefully do so again.

"He is as strong physically as he's been in character and in leadership over so many decades," Obama said. "We all recognize that he has given everything to his people, the people of South Africa, and to the people of the continent."

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