SINGAPORE, Aug 5 — Former president SR Nathan remains critically ill, but his vital signs are currently stable, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who visited him today.
Sharing an update on Nathan in a Facebook post, Lee, who was in the United States for an official visit earlier this week, also expressed gratitude to the team of “dedicated doctors and nurses for their attentive care”.
Nathan was admitted into the Intensive Care Unit at Singapore General Hospital early Sunday morning after suffering a stroke, his second in two years.
The 92-year-old is Singapore’s sixth and longest-serving President and had an illustrious career as a civil servant before that, with roles ranging from security and intelligence chief at the Defence Ministry to diplomat.
Lee said Nathan was still unconscious, but “he is restful and his vital signs are currently stable”. “Not many people have done as much for Singapore as Nathan has. Please continue to keep him in your thoughts and prayers,” he said.
Adding that he also chatted with Nathan’s wife Uma and their family, Lee said: “This is a difficult time for them. The support and encouragement they have received from so many people means a lot to them. They have been touched by the many messages and good wishes.”
Since Nathan was warded, he has received a steady stream of visits from top leaders past and present, including President Tony Tan, Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, former Speaker of Parliament Abdullah Tarmugi and former Senior Minister of State Zainul Abidin Rasheed.
Nathan had also suffered a stroke last year in April, and spent over two weeks in hospital where he underwent therapy. He made a public appearance at a Singapore National Stroke Association event as guest of honour nearly two months later. — TODAY
