Senator Kennedy is OK After Suffering Seizure at Obama Luncheon

Senator Edward M. (Ted) Kennedy, who has been ill for some time with a diagnosed brain tumor, suffered a seizure during a post-inauguration luncheon for new president Barack Obama. Kennedy was hospitalized and noted that he felt well after some tests were run. Dr. Edward Aulisi, chairman of neurosurgery at Washington Hospital Center said of Kennedy’s seizure, "After testing, we believe the incident was brought on by simple fatigue. He will remain overnight for observations, and will be released in the morning." Aulisi also noted that Kennedy, who is 76 years old, "is awake, talking with family and friends, and feeling well."

Kennedy, who campaigned vigorously for Obama and endorsed the new president at an important juncture in his campaign, was seen earlier on the inauguration platform in good spirits and health. When Kennedy collapsed, Senator John Kerry, who ran for president in 2004, and Kennedy’s wife, Vicki, clutched him to keep him from collapsing. Senator Chris Dodd, D-Conn., noted that "It took a lot out of him. Seizures are exhausting." Still, according to Dodd, Kennedy told him as he was being placed in the ambulance that "I’ll be OK, I’ll see you later."

Kennedy was originally diagnosed with the tumor last May and has what doctors refer to as a malignant glioma, which is an aggressive type of brain tumor. Kennedy had a seizure leading up to the diagnosis as well and has undergone surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible as well as radiation and chemotherapy. A doctor who was asked about the most recent seizure noted that it is not at all unusual for those recovering from brain tumors to have seizures, and that the seizure itself should not be viewed as evidence that the removed tumor is returning.