A top Democrat Congresswoman has just announced some less than fortunate news. Virginia Representative Jennifer Wexton has chosen to retire and will no longer be seeking re-election after learning of a fatal health diagnosis. Wexton shared on Twitter that she has been diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare neurological disorder.
In an interview with The Washington Post, the 55-year-old congresswoman opened up about her heartbreaking journey after being told she had no cure for her condition.
An update on my health and my plans for serving #VA10 in Congress. pic.twitter.com/815hxhtRBv
— Rep. Jennifer Wexton (@RepWexton) September 18, 2023
Progressive supranuclear palsy is a rare neurological disorder that affects body movements, walking and balance, as well as eye movements.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), this disease usually worsens rapidly and can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, choking or head injuries from falls.
There is no treatment or cure for PSP which makes it all the more devastating for individuals diagnosed with it.
After being asked by her doctor “why would you want to” seek re-election after having been diagnosed with this life altering disease, Wexton said she knew what needed to be done: “But what became clear was that not only would I not be able to handle the rigors of campaigning in a tough district (hours of daily call time! Campaign rallies! Trackers and attack ads!) even if I could it may have literally killed me. And my life is definitely too short for that!” reported The Washington Post in their exclusive interview with Wexton announcing her decision on Monday, September 18.
Wexton also noted how difficult it has been speaking clearly in public since being diagnosed: “It’s hard for me to speak in a way that people can understand and that they want to listen to … I hate the way I sound now. I always have to think about slowing down and enunciating.”
Despite these challenges she still remains positive looking ahead: “People I know know I’ve struggled for a long time. I’ll be able to relax and enjoy the time I have left and the time I have left in Congress,” she added optimistically before bidding farewell over social media saying: “I’m heartbroken to have to give up something I have loved after so many years of serving my community. But taking into consideration the prognosis for my health over the coming years, I have made the decision not to seek reelection once my term is complete and instead spend my valued time with Andrew, our boys, and my friends and loved ones.”
Although signs were pointing towards Parkinson’s disease earlier this year when Wexton first spoke out about her health issues, ultimately Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) was determined as her correct diagnosis.
It’s indeed heartbreaking news but one thing remains true–the courage and strength Wexton has shown through this entire ordeal speaks volumes about who she truly is at heart while reminding us all just how fragile life truly is at times like these.
