The family statement addresses for the first time the fact that Maynard is a candidate in November's election.
State Senator Andrew Maynard "suffered a serious trauma to the brain" in the fall he suffered at his home in July, according to a new statement released by his family.
The statement says the Senator was unconscious for days after his injury. Some six weeks later, he's now able to read, eat unaided, and understand questions, but his speech is limited to answering "yes" and "no," and he's undergoing further therapy.
This is the third and by far the most detailed statement given by Maynard's family about his condition since the incident. Maynard fell from steps outside his home in the early hours of July 21. Initially treated at Rhode Island Hospital, he's now continuing to undergo rehabilitative therapy at the Hospital for Special Care in New Britain.
The family statement, issued through Senate Democrats, also addresses for the first time the fact that Maynard is a candidate in November's election. "There has been no diagnosis in Andy's case that would preclude a full recovery," says the statement. It goes on "given all we have learned to date, we have no reason to conclude that Andrew would be unable to fulfill the duties of his office... should he be re-elected this fall."
The statement comes after Democrats faced mounting pressure for more transparency on Maynard's condition in the run-up to the vote. There's been some speculation that he might not stand for re-election in his southeastern Connecticut district. But the statement implies he'll remain on the ballot. It promises "frequent updates regarding his progress so that the people of his district can be informed."
