Former first lady Barbara Bush has been hospitalized on Monday for treatment on a “respiratory-related issue,” former President George H.W. Bush’s office said in a statement released late Tuesday night. Barbara Bush, 88, was admitted to Methodist Hospital in Houston’s Texas Medical Center and in “great spirits,” the statement said.
As the nation’s first lady from 1989 through 1993, Bush was feisty, outspoken and a tireless advocate for literacy during her White House years. Following her husband’s loss in the 1992 presidential election, the couple moved to Houston and also spent time at the longtime family home in Kennebunkport, Maine.
She later supported her son George W. Bush as he campaigned for and eventually won the presidency in 2000. Although Bush continues to make public appearances, she memorably told NBC News in April that America has had “enough Bushes” in the White House when asked about a prospective run from her son, Jeb. Barbara has been plagued by health problems in recent years having undergone surgery for a perforated ulcer in 2008 and in 2009 she had heart surgery.
Most recently, in March 2010, she was hospitalized for tests after complaining of not feeling well.
We ask for prayers for a speedy recovery and comfort for Mrs. Bush.
