Mayor Baker comments on his medical condition
by August 27, 2010 4:08 pm 55 views
Fort Smith Mayor Baker issued a press release Friday (Aug. 27) afternoon explaining his lengthy absence from his official duties.
“On Wednesday, August 18, I entered the hospital with severe dehydration. As a result, I developed kidney problems that needed to be addressed. The doctors began procedures to alleviate the problem. I have been assured by my doctor that the problem will be resolved and I will be released soon.
“I will notify the public when I leave the hospital.
“Thank you for your cards. Please continue to pray for a speedy recovery.”
Baker, 71, now in his fifth four-year term, announced Sept. 24 he would seek a sixth term as mayor. Fort Smith businessman and former Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority Director Sandy Sanders is also running for the mayoral post.
In Fort Smith’s manager-council form of government, the mayoral position is primarily ceremonial, with official duties limited to signing documents and presiding over board meetings and board study sessions.
The recent hospitalization is Baker’s second in 9 months. He entered the hospital Nov. 15 after becoming weak rom an the infection. Baker was in the hospital several days to recuperate and convalesce after the illness.
Baker successfully underwent surgery and chemo for colon cancer in late 2007.