Government officials from Argentina are announcing that President Cristina Fernandez Kirchner has successfully completed thyroid cancer removal surgery.  It is reported she is awake after the 3 ½ hour surgery and encountered no health complications during the procedure.

Many supporters were outside the hospital waiting for the good news.  Many others around the country had started a prayer vigil for her last night and numerous masses were held for Fernandez Kirchner.  Pictures of the patron saint of Argentina, Virgin de Lujan, could be seen through the Southern Hospital grounds.

The 58-year old President will be taking a 20 day leave of absence in which time Vice President Amado Boudou will lead the country. 

The cancer was diagnosed shortly before Kirchner took over her second Presidential term.  She is expected to make a full recovery and will not require chemotherapy.