July 15, 2003 – Gov. Charles W. Turnbull continued to receive treatment for a bleeding ulcer on Tuesday at Roy L. Schneider Hospital, where Dr. Thelma Ruth Watson, medical director and one of his attending physicians, described his condition as "medically stable."
Because of the governor's need for rest, his visitors and calls "are being held to an absolute minimum," a Government House release issued Tuesday evening stated. Among the day's visitors were Lt. Gov. Vargrave Richards, Senate President David Jones and what were described as key members of the chief executive's senior staff.
Turnbull was admitted to the hospital on Monday morning after experiencing weakness and dizziness. He was expected to remain hospitalized for 24 to 28 hours. Watson said he spent a comfortable and restful night Monday.
The release said the governor acknowledged "the many calls, prayers and well wishes coming into Government House and the hospital."
A separate release issued Tuesday said that Turnbull on Saturday had canceled his planned participation in a Wednesday morning "Summit of the Caribbean" program at the 94th annual convention of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, which opened on Saturday and continues through Thursday in Miami Beach.
The release said that Kweisi Mfume, NAACP chief executive officer, had asked Turnbull to deliver opening remarks and make a presentation, as well as to take part in a panel discussion with other regional heads of government on U.S.-Caribbean relations and the impact of U.S. policy on immigration and trade.
Turnbull's reason for sending his regrets was unrelated to his health, according to the release. It said he declined the invitation because of this week's legislative session "dealing with the important financial condition of the government."
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.