Cheney gets 'clean bill of health'

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Republican vice presidential nominee Dick Cheney said Wednesday that doctors gave him a "clean bill of health" during a routine checkup at George Washington University Medical Center, a week after suffering a mild heart attack and undergoing an angioplasty procedure.

Dick Cheney tells CNN he feels upbeat and healthy a week after suffering a mild heart attack

"I've lived with this for over 20 years," Cheney said of his heart condition during an interview with CNN. "I've had a fairly successful career in the public and private sectors. ... I am unusually blessed."

The vice presidential nominee -- who is also heading up the transition team for Texas Gov. George W. Bush -- said he feels upbeat and healthy. In a written statement, Cheney's doctors backed up his claim of rapid recovery.

"We told Mr. Cheney he can resume his usual schedule and stressed the importance of good exercise and nutrition." Dr. Gary Malakoff said in the statement.

The 59-year-old former congressman, defense secretary and White House chief had suffered three previous heart attacks over a period of more than 22 years and underwent quadruple coronary bypass surgery in 1988.

He was admitted to George Washington University Medical Center in the predawn hours last Wednesday, was administered an angiogram and underwent the angioplasty treatment. He was released Friday morning and told he could resume normal duties.