Merle Haggard set to be released from Macon hospital

Country singer Merle Haggard has been cleared for his release from a Macon hospital pending his last dose of intravenous antibiotics, his publicist said.

Haggard, 74, has been recovering from pneumonia at The Medical Center of Central Georgia after canceling his concert Tuesday night at the Macon City Auditorium.

Tour manager Frank Mull spoke with Haggard Friday morning and reported the entertainer was set for one more dose of liquid antibiotics before heading home with oral medication and orders to rest, said Tresa Redburn, Haggard's publicist.

"I'm just so happy I got the word," Redburn said.

Mull said Haggard is thankful to all for the good thoughts and prayers.

"Please keep it up," he said.

Redburn said Haggard was being "treated like a rock star" and "really liked his doctor."

With his tour dates canceled for the rest of the month, Redburn said Haggard and his family are set to make the cross-country trip back to Northern California where he will continue his recovery.

Haggard is scheduled to return to Macon for a concert at the City Auditorium on April 25.

Tuesday's tickets will be honored or refunds are available where tickets were purchased.

This story was originally published January 20, 2012 at 2:17 PM with the headline "Merle Haggard set to be released from Macon hospital."