George W. Bush Underwent Back Surgery: Report

Former president George W. Bush had back surgery several months ago, National Journal reports.

Two sources close to the Bush family cited a nagging disc problem as the reason for the surgery.

National Journal reports:

The 43rd president and his wife, Laura, spent the entire month of January in Florida so Bush could recuperate from the surgery and take in some spring-training baseball.

These sources say Bush’s doctors told him to give up golf until his back healed, but he managed to sneak in some chipping and putting in Florida and has now been seen back on the links at a Dallas country club.

Dubya isn't the only member of the Bush family to run into health problems. His father, former president George H.W. Bush, recently spent nearly two months at Houston's Methodist Hospital, where he was being treated for a persistant cough and a fever.

The younger Bush is currently gearing up for the opening of his presidential library at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. It was confirmed Wednesday that Bush had reached a major milestone in fundraising for the library, rounding up $500 million for the project.

The library will open to the public on May 1, 2013. A dedication ceremony taking place on April 25 will feature all five living presidents -- Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama -- and their spouses.