WASHINGTON, DC — PRIME Minister Dr Terrance Drew made his first public appearance since falling ill over the weekend, telling the nation from Florida on Thursday (Sept. 3) afternoon that he remains in good spirits and is recovering well.
Dr Drew became ill on Sunday and spent approximately 18 hours under observation and receiving treatment at the Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital after experiencing nausea, vomiting, neck pain, headaches, dizziness and difficulty with his balance.
On the advice of local doctors, the Prime Minister sought further medical treatment overseas. He was reportedly taken to Martinique before travelling onward to South Florida, where he is continuing to undergo medical evaluations.
In a video address from hospital, Dr Drew said there was currently no cause for alarm but stressed that doctors were continuing their investigations.
Dr Drew explained that he began experiencing persistent nausea on Sunday, which progressed to episodes of vomiting.
“I also noticed a distinct pain on the left side of my neck accompanied by a mild headache and dizziness. As the day progressed, I began feeling unsteady on my feet and had difficulty with my balance and walking,” he said. “I understood that these were symptoms that should not be ignored.”
Consultations were held with Dr Jeffrey Liburd, Dr Yren Baez, Dr Dwayne Hendrickson and Dr Laguna, following which he was directed to the hospital, where a series of scans and other investigations were conducted.
The Prime Minister thanked citizens, residents and well-wishers for their prayers, messages and expressions of support.
“As a medical doctor, I know when it is time to practise medicine and when it is time to simply be the patient. After the weekend I just had, I knew the best thing I could do was step back, follow my doctor’s orders and take the rest my body required,” he noted.
Dr Drew said he was also taking a break from his regular gym routine while following his doctors’ advice.
“Though I certainly miss my regular gym regimen, I am content for now taking it easy. In fact, following my doctor’s advice, I went for a gentle walk earlier this morning and it felt great getting moving once again,” he said.
The Prime Minister described the experience as a “wake-up call” and urged citizens to take their health seriously.
“We must listen when our bodies speak to us. Please take your health seriously, get your regular checkups, take the time to rest and never ignore the warning signs when something does not feel right,” he said.
Dr Drew also expressed gratitude to the doctors, nurses and other medical staff at JNF General Hospital for their swift response, care and professionalism, as well as to the medical professionals currently treating him.
He thanked medical personnel in Martinique, particularly Professor Dabur Rezaie, along with representatives of the French Embassy, the French Ambassador, the U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires and the Consulate of the Commonwealth of Dominica in Martinique.
The Prime Minister said he remains in stable condition and is fully conscious as his medical evaluations continue. Further updates are expected to be providedin the coming days.
