First Lady Melania Trump Had Kidney Surgery This Morning
First Lady Melania Trump underwent kidney surgery this morning at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center near Washington, D.C., her office announced today (Monday, May 14) in a statement.
Trump, who turned 48 last month, had been experiencing a recurring issue with her kidney that her office describes as benign. According to the statement, the procedure was successful and Trump experienced no complications. Still, she’s expected to remain under hospital supervision for the rest of the week following the procedure.
“Melania Trump underwent an embolization procedure to treat a benign kidney issue,” the statement said. “The procedure was successful and there were no complications. … [She] will likely remain there for the duration of the week. The First Lady looks forward to a full recovery so she can continue her work on behalf of children everywhere.” Embolization procedures help reduce or cut off the supply of blood to a tumor or other abnormal growth, according to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
Prior to today’s hospitalization, Trump appeared outwardly in good health this week. On May 7, she unveiled her newest philanthropic initiative, Be Best, which focuses on the well-being of children and kindness and safety for kids using social media. This was followed by an appearance on May 11 at a ceremony for Military Mothers and Spouses in the White House East Room.
Trump is the first U.S. first lady to undergo a serious medical procedure while in the White House since Nancy Reagan underwent a mastectomy in 1987, CNN reports. The outlet also reports that President Donald Trump remained at the White House during his wife’s surgery, but he’s expected to visit the hospital “shortly.”