U.S. Sen. John Fetterman’s staff said Monday that he is being briefed on activity and discussing updates on legislation and other priorities, several weeks after he checked himself into the hospital for treatment of clinical depression.
Fetterman’s chief of staff Adam Jentleson said he had a productive morning with Fetterman on Monday talking about rail safety legislation he introduced, as well as updates on a large farm bill making its way through the chamber.
Jentleson tweeted Monday a series of photos with Fetterman, who is currently hospitalized at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.
“John is well on his way to recovery and wanted me to say how grateful he is for all the well wishes,” tweeted Jentleson. “He’s laser focused on Pa. & will be back soon.”
Productive morning with Senator Fetterman at Walter Reed discussing the rail safety legislation, Farm Bill and other Senate business. John is well on his way to recovery and wanted me to say how grateful he is for all the well wishes. He’s laser focused on PA & will be back soon. pic.twitter.com/143uAhoQRx
— Adam Jentleson (@AJentleson) March 6, 2023
Fetterman, D-Braddock, checked himself into the hospital last month and was diagnosed with clinical depression. His office said Fetterman is voluntarily seeking treatment for depression.
In May 2022, Fetterman suffered a stroke and he has had some lingering health effects, like issues with auditory processing, ever since. According to the American Stroke Association, depression is common for stroke survivors, and is often caused by biochemical changes in the brain resulting from a stroke.
Joe Calvello, Fetterman’s spokesman, said Jentleson’s visit is part of daily briefings the senator has received since being hospitalized.
Since seeking medical treatment, many politicians have praised Fetterman for seeking treatment and bringing his mental health issues front and center.
Last week, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said he has been texting Fetterman’s wife Gisele for updates and he praised Fetterman for being “brave” in seeking treatment for depression.
“I think it is something that is inspiring others to get the care they need,” said Shapiro during a March 1 visit to Pittsburgh.
