Gov. Phil Murphy underwent surgery on March 4 to remove a potentially cancerous tumor. According to Acting Governor Sheila Oliver, the surgery at an undisclosed hospital in New York City was a success.
“Earlier today, Governor Murphy underwent a successful surgery to remove a tumor on his kidney,” Oliver said. “He is currently resting at a hospital in New York City.”
Oliver has stepped in as Acting Governor and will remain in the position for an estimated few weeks until Murphy has made a full enough recovery to return to office.
First Lady of New Jersey Tammy Murphy also confirmed in a statement that her husband’s kidney surgery was a success. While Murphy previously stated that the tumor was potentially cancerous, it is not clear if the tumor was benign or malignant.
“Phil, the kids, and I cannot thank everyone enough for the tremendous outpouring of support we’ve received at this challenging time. We are so very grateful,” the First Lady said.
In good spirits
She reported that the governor’s surgery presented no surprises to his doctors and was a success. The tumor was removed, and his left kidney remains largely intact.
“He is awake and, as expected, is in some discomfort, but he’s gone through the entire day with his usual good humor and optimism buoying the nurses, doctors, staff, and anyone else in his proximity, present company included,” the First Lady said. “The kids and I are so happy to have him through surgery and now set our sights on healing.”
Tammy Murphy said that the governor is already thinking about the Garden State and returning home.
“Home is not far from his mind, and one of his first questions, after asking how the surgery went and how the kids and I were holding up, was, ‘Is everything OK in New Jersey?'”Tammy Murphy said.
Gov. Murphy will now rest at the undisclosed hospital in New York City until he’s ready to head back home to rest further for a week or two before resuming his duties. He’s expected to make a full recovery without any complications.
“We know that Phil will jump back into the thick of things in no time,” Tammy Murphy said.
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