Statement from the Office of Auditor of State Betty Montgomery

May 18, 2006 Statement from the office of Auditor of State Betty Montgomery Columbus (5/18/06) - Ohio Auditor of State Betty Montgomery was admitted to The Ohio State University Medical Center Wednesday, May 17 for complications following a respiratory virus. Although testing is still ongoing, Montgomery is currently being treated for Guillain-Barr￩ syndrome (GBS), an inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nerves. The condition is not life threatening, however progression of the disorder can be unpredictable and, as is typical for most cases of GBS, Montgomery is receiving treatment in the hospital's intensive care unit. As much as 50 percent of GBS cases develop following a viral infection. Montgomery had been suffering from a chest cold and cough for a little over a week. "We're glad that Auditor Montgomery is getting the treatment she needs," said Chief of Staff Deb Hackathorn. "Work at the Auditor of State's Office will continue uninterrupted and we look forward to her speedy recovery and return to the office." Montgomery is well known for her strong work ethic and demanding schedule. It would come as no surprise to those who know her that any interruption to her regular calendar causes her great frustration. Montgomery recognized, however, that what she had hoped was a simple common cold will require some additional medical attention. Although the recovery prognosis is good, Montgomery will be hospitalized for an indeterminate amount of time for treatment and observation. She anticipates a complete recovery, but different people are affected differently by this syndrome and it is difficult to predict an exact recovery date. Montgomery is currently in good spirits and resting comfortably. ### Paid for by the Montgomery Campaign Committee, Neil Carson, Treasurer, 211 S. Fifth Street, Suite 303, Columbus, Ohio 43215