Inouye Remains Hospitalized
Hawaii Sen. Daniel Inouye, 88, remained hospitalized Monday after spending the weekend there as doctors monitored his oxygen intake.
His office released the following statement:
“For the most part, I am OK. However, I am currently working with my doctors to regulate my oxygen intake. Much to my frustration, while undergoing this process, I have to remain in the hospital for my own safety and to allow the necessary observation.”“I will be back on the Hill as soon as my doctors allow it. Thank you all for the kind words and continued support.”
Inouye underwent lung surgery in the ’60s when he was misdiagnosed with cancer, according to his aides, and the current situation appears to be related to that loss of lung capacity. He was using a portable oxygen supply, coming and going from votes in the Capitol last week and then later entered George Washington University Hospital. His office confirmed that he has since been moved to Walter Reed.
Gov. Neil Abercrombie wished Inouye a speedy recovery, saying in a statement: “We are in close touch with Sen. Inouye and his office. He is alert, feisty and ready to get back to work as soon as possible.”
Inouye recently told Civil Beat that he plans on running for reelection in 2016 at age 92.
Still, the senator’s health has been a topic of discussion among Hawaii Democrats lately, as they recently started considering transition plans should Inouye not finish out his current term.
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