St Kitts prime minister remains in good spirits despite undisclosed illness

St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew says he remains in good spirits as doctors in the United States continue evaluating him after a recent health scare.

In a five-minute broadcast, Drew appeared with tubes and plaster attached to his hands. He said he had first received treatment on the French island of Martinique and was now in South Florida. He did not disclose the nature of his illness. Earlier media reports in Martinique said he had suffered a stroke, but that he was not expected to experience lasting effects.

Drew said he and his wife travelled to the United States on the advice of specialists in St Kitts and Nevis and Martinique. “At this stage there is nothing alarming to report but the doctors are continuing their investigations and I believe it is important that they are allowed to be thorough,” he said.

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At this stage there is nothing alarming to report but the doctors are continuing their investigations and I believe it is important that they are allowed to be thorough.

He recalled developing persistent nausea and vomiting last Sunday, followed by pain on the left side of his neck, a mild headache, dizziness and problems with balance and walking. He contacted three doctors, including a neurologist, who directed him to JNF General Hospital for scans and further tests.

Drew thanked citizens, residents and well-wishers for their prayers, messages and medical advice. “As a medical doctor, I know when it is time to practise medicine and when it is time to simply be the patient,” he said.

The 49-year-old prime minister, who has led the twin-island federation since 2022, said he had stepped back and followed his doctors’ orders. He misses his regular gym routine but said a gentle walk that morning felt good. He described the experience as a wake-up call and a reminder that health matters.

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As a medical doctor, I know when it is time to practise medicine and when it is time to simply be the patient.