Israel’s first lady in critical condition, president rushes back to country
First Lady Nechama Rivlin, the wife of Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, is in critical but stable condition after her health deteriorated late Tuesday.
Nechama underwent a complicated single lung transplant last month. For the last hours, she has been sedated and is on respiratory support because of severe shortness of breath due to cardiac complications.
Rivlin, who was on an official visit in Canada, decided to cut short his trip and return to Israel. He will go to Beilinson Hospital to be at her side when he lands.
Nechama has been undergoing a long and complex process of recovery. She had been suffering from pulmonary fibrosis for several years. The transplant took place after a long period of waiting.
Israel’s leadership conveyed their wishes for Nechama’s full recovery.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he wished Nechama a full recovery, “together with all Israel’s citizens.”
Knesset Speaker Yoel Edelstein stated that Israel was praying for Nechama’s complete recovery.