Rye Native, Ex-First Lady Barbara Bush, George H.W. Bush Both Hospitalized

Former U.S. President George H.W. Bush, who grew up in Greenwich, was admitted to the ICU in Houston Wednesday to address an acute respiratory problem. His wife Barbara, a native of Rye, was also admitted to the same hospital.

Former First Lady Barbara Pierce Bush, 91, who was raised in Rye, attended Rye Country Day School.
Photo Credit: *Wikipedia*

Former President George H.W. Bush, 92, is in intensive care in Houston.
Photo Credit: *Flickr user Marion Doss*

Casey Donahue

01/18/2017 5:27 p.m.

Jim McGrath, a spokesperson for the couple said in a statement that they had both been admitted to Houston Methodist Hospital on Wednesday. The 92-year-old former president's respiratory problem stemmed from pneumonia, McGrath said.

"Doctors performed a procedure to protect and clear his airway that required sedation. President Bush is stable and resting comfortably in the ICU, where he will remain for observation," McGrath said.

The former first lady, who is 91, was admitted to the hospital as a precaution after experiencing fatigue and coughing, McGrath said in the same statement Wednesday afternoon.

The 41st president moved to Greenwich with his family from Milton, Mass., shortly after his birth. He began his education at Greenwich Country Day School. Barbara Pierce Bush grew up in Rye and attended Rye Country Day School.

Bush had already planned on missing Friday's inauguration ceremony in Washington, D.C. due to health concerns. In a letter to President-elect Donald Trump, Bush wrote, "My doctor says if I sit outside in January, it will likely put me six feet under. Same for Barbara. So I guess we're stuck in Texas.

"But we will be with you and the country in spirit," he continued. "I want you to know that I wish you the very best as you begin this incredible journey of leading our great country. If I can ever be of help, please let me know."

The Bush's son, George W. Bush, the 43rd president (making the Bushes only the second father and son to serve as U.S. presidents) has announced he will attend Friday's Inauguration with his wife, Laura.

McGrath said more details on the Bushes will be provided as events warrant.

Barbara Bush was born June 8, 1925. She was first lady from 1989 to 1993. As wife of the vice president and then president, Barbara Bush has supported and worked to advance the cause of universal literacy. She founded the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy while first lady. Since leaving the White House, she has continued to advance this cause.

In 1995, Bush received the award for Greatest Public Service Benefiting the Disadvantaged, an award given annually by Jefferson Awards.

In 1997, she was the recipient of The Miss America Woman of Achievement Award for her work with literacy programs.

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