BASSETERRE — The Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, Senior Minister and former prime minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, has undergone successful back surgery and is recovering well, according to a statement he released thanking God, his medical team and well-wishers for their support.
In the statement, Douglas said the procedure addressed severe back pain stemming from a life-threatening motor vehicle accident in 1988 that injured his spine. That injury previously required surgery to his cervical area in 2003 and, most recently, surgery to address his lumbar-sacral area.
“I am pleased to report that the procedure was highly successful, and I have received an excellent and encouraging report from my Neurosurgeon Prof. Dr Anthony K Frempong-Boadu of NYU Langone Health,” Douglas said. “While my recovery continues, I am progressing well, encouraged by the positive signs each day, and remain optimistic about my health and the future.”
Douglas, who trained as a medical doctor before entering politics, said the experience deepened his appreciation for advances in modern medicine and for the healthcare workers who cared for him. He singled out his daughter, Dr. Andrea F. Douglas, a neurosurgeon, along with her family, for their support throughout his recovery.
“This experience has reaffirmed that even in moments of fear and uncertainty, hope and faith remain powerful,” Douglas said. “Healing is a process that requires patience, perseverance, and purpose. I encourage anyone facing illness or personal challenges to remain steadfast, trust the process, and never lose hope. Better days are possible.”
Douglas thanked his constituents, family, friends, colleagues and well-wishers at home and abroad for their prayers and encouragement during his recovery, and said he remains committed to serving the people of the Federation.
Douglas, 73, served as prime minister of St. Kitts and Nevis from 1995 to 2015, making him the longest-serving prime minister in the country’s history. He returned to Cabinet in 2022 as Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, Industry, Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Economic Development and Investment.