News

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen Extends Hospital Stay for Rib Surgery

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, 68, underwent surgery Wednesday to stabilize his broken ribs following a severe horseback riding accident. The procedure, performed at the Nebraska Medical Center, will prolong his hospital stay as he recovers under medical supervision.

A Sudden Change in Leadership

The surgery temporarily elevated Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly to acting governor for approximately four hours during the procedure and initial recovery period. Kelly, also 68, brings extensive legal experience as a former Lancaster County Attorney and senior prosecutor in Nebraska’s Attorney General’s Office.

Pillen sustained significant injuries Sunday when a new horse bucked him off during a family outing. Among his injuries were seven broken ribs, a partially collapsed lung, a lacerated spleen, a fractured vertebra, and a kidney contusion.

His medical team emphasized that the surgical placement of metal plates would strengthen long-term healing, improve pain management, and reduce the risk of complications.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen horseback riding accident

Recovery and Family Support

Pillen’s recovery journey will likely extend over the next three months, with doctors closely monitoring his progress. According to a statement from the Governor’s Office, his recovery from spleen surgery performed Sunday has “progressed well,” and there have been no additional concerns regarding injuries to his kidney or lung.

Doctors noted that Pillen had already been walking by Monday, demonstrating resilience despite the severity of his injuries. “We are fortunate the governor avoided head, neck, or spine injuries, which are common in falls like this,” said a spokesperson for the medical team.

Pillen and his wife, Suzanne, extended their gratitude to Nebraskans for their support and well wishes. They also praised the medical team at Nebraska Medicine for their exceptional care.

The Governor’s Active Lifestyle

Even while hospitalized, Pillen expressed a strong desire to return home to Columbus, Nebraska, for the holiday season. His request reflects his connection to family life and the hog operation run on his family’s land, where the accident occurred.

The Governor’s Office emphasized Pillen’s active lifestyle as a key factor in his eligibility for rib stabilization surgery. Doctors are optimistic about his full recovery, attributing it to his strong health profile and determination.

A Close Call

Sunday’s incident was not the first time Pillen’s injuries required Kelly to temporarily assume gubernatorial duties. Emergency spleen surgery on the day of the accident similarly led to a brief transfer of authority.

The new horse, Jack, had been a recent addition to the Pillen family, making the accident a stark reminder of the unpredictability of horseback riding.

Injury Overview

Injury Details
Broken Ribs Seven ribs fractured
Lung Damage Partially collapsed lung
Spleen Lacerated, emergency repair
Vertebra Fracture One vertebra broken
Kidney Contusion Minor injury, monitored

Governor’s Statement Highlights

  • Holiday Message: “Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah” from the Pillen family.
  • Gratitude: Thanks to medical staff and Nebraskans for their outpouring of support.
  • Recovery Outlook: Full recovery expected in three months.

Nebraska’s first-term governor, a former University of Nebraska regent and Husker football player, faces a challenging recovery ahead. However, his resolve and the support of his family and constituents provide a strong foundation for his healing.

Comments

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *