US President Barack Obama wished Wednesday Barbara Bush, wife of the 41st President of the US George H. W. Bush, a speedy recovery after she was admitted to hospital on Monday in Houston, Texas. Obama said in a statement "Michelle and I send our best wishes to Mrs. Bush for a speedy recovery." "Barbara is blessed to have both a loving, supportive family by her side and a vibrant spirit that we hope will have her feeling better soon," he remarked. He added "I know I speak for Americans everywhere when I say that our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara and her family on this New Year's Day." The former First lady, 88, was hospitalized on Monday for treatment of a "respiratory-related issue."