Schwarzenegger Backs Out of Inaugural Parties

In a just released statement, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger says he won't be able to attend inaugural parties tomorrow because his fractured femur requires him to keep his leg elevated and he needs to rest up for his inaugural address Friday. That means no public "green" party on the Capitol lawn, and no reception with donors in the evening. Maria Shriver will represent him.

It's clear the injury is wearing him down more than expected (otherwise the schedule would have changed earlier.) "After meeting with my doctor he has advised me to rest, elevate my leg and stay off of my feet for as long as possible," Schwarzenegger said in the statement.

Dr. Kevin Ehrhart, his orthopedic surgeon, said the governor is "recovering from significant surgery on his femur. His recovery has been extraordinary and I am adamant he not do anything that could jeopardize that recovery. I will continue to advise him on his health through his swearing-in, inaugural speech, State of the State, and budget presentation."

Schwarzenegger, who walked with a slight limp even before the skiing accident, has admitted having two artificial hips and a new heart valve as well. He once joked that he is becoming the Terminator cyborg he played in the movies.

(Photo: Brian Baer / Sacramento Bee via AP)