BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Tuesday 14th July 2026)-Senior Government Minister and former Prime Minister Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, a trained medical doctor, has applauded the advances in modern medicine following a successful surgical intervention for severe back pain associated with longstanding spinal injuries sustained in a serious motor vehicle accident in 1988.
In a Facebook post shared on Monday, 13th July 2026, titled “Statement of Gratitude and Encouragement,” Dr. Douglas, 73, shared details of his medical journey and expressed gratitude to God, healthcare professionals, family, friends and supporters who stood with him during the challenging period.
He said his experience as both a medical doctor and a patient further strengthened his appreciation for the advances in modern medicine and technology, as well as the professionals involved in his care.
“As a Medical Doctor myself, this experience has further strengthened my appreciation for the remarkable advances in modern medicine and technology, and for the exceptional skill, professionalism, and compassion of the doctors, nurses, therapists, technicians, and all healthcare professionals whose expertise and dedicated care made this successful outcome possible,” he stated.
“I extend my deepest appreciation to each of them,” he added.
The former Prime Minister reported that the procedure was successful and that he received an encouraging assessment from his neurosurgeon, Professor Dr. Anthony K. Frempong-Boadu of NYU Langone Health.
“I am pleased to report that the procedure was highly successful, and I have received an excellent and encouraging report from my Neurosurgeon Prof. Dr Anthony K Frempong-Boadu of NYU Langone Health,” he said.
While acknowledging that his recovery is ongoing, Dr. Douglas said he is progressing well and remains optimistic about his health and the future.
“While my recovery continues, I am progressing well, encouraged by the positive signs each day, and remain optimistic about my health and the future,” he stated.
Dr. Douglas highlighted that his medical journey dates back nearly four decades to a serious motor vehicle accident in 1988, which resulted in significant injuries to his spine and required subsequent surgical interventions.
“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to Almighty God for His grace, strength, and protection throughout a recent period of significant health challenges resulting from severe back pain, which ultimately required surgical intervention,” he stated.
He further explained: “The problems stem from a serious life threatening MVA in 1988 with serious injuries to my spine leading to surgical intervention in 2003 to the Cervical area, and now to the Lumbar-Sacral area.”
The former Prime Minister also expressed appreciation to his family, particularly his daughter Dr. Andrea F. Douglas, a neurosurgeon, as well as her household, including Alex and Denzil, along with friends, colleagues, associates, constituents and the many well-wishers locally and internationally.
“I am equally grateful to my devoted family especially my daughter Dr Andrea F Douglas (Neurosurgeon) and her household including Alex and Denzil, friends, colleagues, associates, constituents, and the many well-wishers, both at home and abroad, whose prayers, encouragement, visits, messages, and unwavering support have been a tremendous source of strength throughout this journey,” he said.
Dr. Douglas said the experience reinforced the importance of maintaining hope and faith during difficult periods.
“This experience has reaffirmed that even in moments of fear and uncertainty, hope and faith remain powerful. Healing is a process that requires patience, perseverance, and purpose,” he stated.
He encouraged persons facing illness or personal challenges to remain steadfast and hopeful.
“I encourage anyone facing illness or personal challenges to remain steadfast, trust the process, and never lose hope. Better days are possible,” Dr. Douglas said.
As he continues his recovery, Dr. Douglas said he looks forward with renewed strength, gratitude and optimism while remaining committed to serving the people of the Federation.
“As I continue on the road to recovery, I look forward with renewed strength, gratitude, and optimism, and remain committed to serving the people of our beloved Federation,” he stated.
He ended his message by again thanking those who supported him during the challenging period.
“Thank you once again to everyone who stood with me during this challenging period,” Dr. Douglas wrote.
“May Almighty God continue to bless you all, especially my constituents, family, friends, colleagues, associates, and every well-wisher. God bless you all.”
