Tell us how you really feel, congressman.
Former Rep. John Dingell, America’s longest-serving congressman, is back in the hospital, he tweeted Tuesday, while lamenting his age:
Back in the hospital. Being old sucks.
— John Dingell (@JohnDingell) October 6, 2015The 89-year-old Michigan Democrat did not say what prompted his latest hospital visit. He was last hospitalized in December for a hairline hip fracture, and a few months prior, for abdominal pain.
During his September residence at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Dingell sent a series of lighthearted tweets about news, sports, and politics, all while being nursed back to health.
Dingell retired from Congress in February 2014 after spending 58 years in office. Dingell’s wife Debbie Dingell succeeded her husband, rendering her the third Dingell to hold the seat. John Dingell’s father — John Dingell, Sr. — held it from 1933 until 1955.
Increasingly, American politicians are taking to Twitter with health updates. After suffering a fall at his home in July, former President George H.W. Bush tweeted a photo to update his followers on his recovery.
Who knew jumping out of planes was safer than getting out of bed? Thanks to all for your kind get-well messages. pic.twitter.com/T9FmhCqyme
— George Bush (@GeorgeHWBush) July 30, 2015Similarly, in June, Secretary of State John Kerry tweeted to let the world know he was “[f]eeling good a week after surgery.” Kerry was hospitalized after breaking his leg in a cycling accident.
Feeling good a week after surgery. Good chats today w/@AmbassadorRice & @StateDept senior team. The work continues! pic.twitter.com/TzRpR0khQs
— John Kerry (@JohnKerry) June 9, 2015
Stephanie Scrafano