Monday, August 13, 2012

Resign now then get better: Two months later, we learn Jesse Jr. is being treated for bi-polar disorder

Over two months after he surreptitiously took a leave of absence from Congress, we learn that U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-IL) is being treated for bipolar II depression, the Mayo Clinic said in a press release:

From the Chicago Tribune:
Mayo Clinic said the diagnosis came after extensive evaluation. “Congressman Jackson is responding well to the treatment and regaining his strength,” it said in the statement.

The statement added:

"Many Americans have bipolar disorder. Bipolar II disorder is a treatable condition that affects parts of the brain controlling emotion, thought and drive and is most likely caused by a complex set of genetic and environmental factors. Congressman Jackson underwent bariatric surgery in 2004, specifically a duodenal switch. This type of surgery is increasingly common in the US and can change how the body absorbs food, liquids, vitamins, nutrients and medications.

"Congressman Jackson has asked Mayo Clinic to distribute this information on his behalf. He and his family remain grateful for support and prayers offered and received on his behalf."
Hmmm...it took a clinic in Arizona and and the Mayo Clinic two months to find this out? I'm not a mental health professional, but I think not.

At this point I think it's best that Junior resign his seat. He's been disenguous with his constituents--why were statements with his quotes from him released by his office after his treatment began?--and unlike Sen. Mark Kirk (R-IL), who suffered a stroke in January, there is no evidence that Jackson is doing any work or will be anytime soon. Now is the time to focus on recovery.

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1 comment:

Office Space Lisle said...

Does this announcement really come as a surprise to anyone? Jackson has always been a bit out there and over enthusiastic. Hopefully the treatment gets completed and he does well.