Gay-bash victim and internationally known drag queen Kevin Aviance is pictured leaving the Beth Israel Hospital. New York City, USA - 12.06.06

The ALIVE hitmaker was released yesterday (12JUN06) having undergone surgery for a broken jaw and leg injuries.

His lawyer JAY SANCHEZ warns, despite the singer's stable physical condition, it may be months before Aviance comes to terms with the psychological trauma he has suffered.

Sanchez says, "Kevin is in a lot of pain, mentally and physically. He faces a long road to recovery."

Aviance, whose jaw is wired shut, formed the words "thank you" with his lips to the media as he was wheeled out of Beth Israel Medical Centre.