Governor Jim Pillen of Nebraska is expected to be released from the hospital after undergoing surgery to stabilize the ribs he broke in a horse riding accident. The surgery involved installing nine titanium plates to help with the stabilization. Since the procedure, Pillen has shown significant improvement in his breathing and mobility. He is expected to return to work next week while continuing his recovery at the governor’s residence in Lincoln. However, doctors have advised him to wait until he is fully recovered before considering getting back on a horse.
Pillen, 68, also suffered a spleen injury, for which doctors performed a minimally invasive procedure called prophylactic embolization to stop the bleeding. In addition to the rib and spleen injuries, he also had a minor fracture in a vertebrae and a kidney laceration. Both of these injuries are expected to heal on their own in the coming weeks. Nebraska’s Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly acted as governor temporarily while Pillen was undergoing treatment.
Despite the injuries, Pillen and his family expressed gratitude for the care he received from the medical staff at Nebraska Medicine and for the well-wishes from the people of Nebraska. Pillen was elected governor in 2022 and is expected to work with lawmakers when the state Legislature returns next month. Dr. Charity Evans stated that Pillen should be ready to resume his duties as governor and work with lawmakers upon his recovery.
The accident serves as a reminder of the risks involved in horseback riding and the importance of taking precautions to prevent injuries. As Pillen continues his recovery, he will need to prioritize his health and well-being in order to fully heal from the injuries sustained in the accident. The incident has also highlighted the role of Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly in taking on the responsibilities of governor temporarily, showcasing the importance of having a designated successor in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
As Pillen prepares to return to work, the focus will be on his continued recovery and ensuring that he is able to fulfill his duties as governor effectively and safely. The support and well-wishes from the community will play a crucial role in aiding his recovery process. The incident has brought attention to the resilience and determination of Pillen, as well as the importance of prioritizing health and safety in all activities, including horseback riding.
