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Senator Gerard informs chamber of episodic ataxia diagnosis, asks colleagues to note possible symptoms
Summary
Senator Gerard disclosed on the Senate floor that he has a rare condition called episodic ataxia that can affect his gait, speech and vision, and asked colleagues to be aware rather than assume intoxication if symptoms appear.
Senator Gerard told colleagues on the Senate floor that he has a rare medical condition called episodic ataxia that can, at times, affect his walking, speech and vision.
“It's called episodic ataxia,” Gerard said on the floor, explaining that during episodes he may not walk well, may have slurred speech, and “my vision … might be going to heck.” He said the condition can cause double or multiple vision and that he takes medication for it. He asked colleagues not to assume he is intoxicated if they observe those symptoms.
President Wagner acknowledged the statement and said the chamber would keep the senator’s health in mind. The disclosure was made during the Remonstrances segment, and there was no recorded motion or formal action tied to the statement.
