Randy Travis has suffered a stroke whilst undergoing surgery in a Texas hospital. Travis' condition has changed dramatically since his Doctors made a statement in which they said his "condition has stabilized, and he has shown signs of improvement".

Randy Travis
Randy Travis outside the Ed Sullivan Theater in 2008.

Travis' publicist Kirt Webster said on Wednesday night (9th July) that the singer had suffered a stroke whilst undergoing surgery for congestive heart failure, according to reports in USA Today. The surgery he was undergoing was in order to relieve pressure on his brain.

The singer appeared to be well up until three weeks ago when he contracted a respiratory infection. He was admitted to Baylor Medical Center A&E before being transferred to The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano. It is believed the infection caused the muscles in his heart were weakened which led congestive heart failure and presumptive cardiomyopathy, as reported by TMZ.

Randy TravisRandy Travis performing at the Washington Convention Center in 2007.

An initial procedure was carried out on Tuesday (9th July). Travis "underwent placement of an Impella peripheral left ventricular assist device for stabilization prior to transferring hospitals", his representative told People. His condition remained critical.

It appears his situation has worsened with this latest procedure. Furthermore, there appears to be a history of heart problems in Travis' family. His sister-in-law Terea Traywick (speaking to People) said that her husband, Travis' brother Ricky Traywick had a heart attack last year, whilst Travis and Traywick's mother "passed away at an early age with her heart". She added sadly that "it is like these boys are following in their footsteps"

Randy Travis
Randy Travis pictured outside the the Ed Sullivan Theater, New York.