Prime Minister’s Recovery Progressing Extremely Well after Stroke

Prime Minister The Hon. Dr. Terrance M. Drew revealed Sunday that he suffered a stroke caused by a dissection of the vertebral artery, the artery located at the back of the brain, in his first public address since being hospitalized and flown abroad for treatment.

Speaking from Florida, where he is now undergoing rehabilitation after being discharged from the hospital, Drew said the effects of the stroke on his body and mind “have been well controlled and well managed.” He said he can move all of his limbs and speak well, and that his mentation, coordination and intelligence remain intact.

“At this point in time I can say both mentally and psychologically and also physically I’m doing much better than my ailment will suggest,” the Prime Minister said.

Dr. Drew credited the swift response of medical staff at Joseph N. France General Hospital for stabilizing him during what he called “the golden hour” before his transfer abroad, allowing him to travel in a condition to receive further treatment. He also thanked medical teams at a facility in Martinique and at Baptist Health in Florida, as well as the French and European Union ambassadors, the Commonwealth of Dominica’s honorary consul, and the United States Embassy in Barbados for their roles in facilitating his care.

The Prime Minister said his government had contingency plans in place well before his illness, allowing him to delegate his responsibilities to the Cabinet without disruption.

“This administration is mature, it is competent, and it takes no chances,” he said, adding that he has been monitoring the transition and that “the government has been functioning extremely well.” He specifically thanked Deputy Prime Minister The Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, now serving as Acting Prime Minister, for ensuring Cabinet continued to function in his absence.

Drew said his overall health prior to the stroke — including his blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure — had been strong, giving him “the physical basis for my quick rebound,” which he said was matched by his prayer and meditation practice.

He thanked his wife, who has remained by his side, along with his son, mother and sisters, and expressed gratitude to supporters within and outside the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party.

The Prime Minister said he looks forward to returning to St. Kitts and Nevis to resume leading Cabinet, return to Parliament and serve his constituency.