Governor Ernie Fletcher’s Communication Office
Governor Ernie Fletcher Transfers Power to Lt. Governor Steve Pence

Governor to undergo procedure to remove blood clot from arm

FRANKFORT, Ky. – At 3:57 p.m. on Thursday, March 09, 2006 Governor Ernie Fletcher actuated a transfer of power to Lt. Governor Steve Pence. Governor Fletcher was to undergo a procedure at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Lexington to dissolve a blood clot discovered in the Governor’s upper left arm.

The procedure was expected to last one hour to 90 minutes.  The Governor’s risk of further complications was low.

At a press conference at 3:15 p.m., Governor Fletcher’s Chief of Staff Stan Cave and Communications Director Brett Hall briefed the media, saying that the Governor discovered some bruising and discomfort in his upper left arm.

Governor Fletcher consulted Dr. Charles Kennedy, an infectious disease specialist in Lexington, who advised him to seek further treatment.  A blood clot was detected and preparations were made for the Governor to undergo a procedure called invasive radiology to dissolve the clot.

After the procedure the Governor was to be placed in the intensive care unit for observation. He could remain there for one or two days.

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