The Tribune

Former Prime Minister Perry Christie is in hospital, though his family say he is in "good spirits". 

Statements were issued on Saturday by both Mr Christie's family through his social media and by Prime Minister Philip "Brave" Davis. 

Mr Christie's family said: "The Christie family remains encouraged by the outpouring of love and support for former Prime Minister Perry Gladstone Christie. Mr Christie is currently hospitalised and undergoing further tests. He is in good spirits and maintains his usual optimism.

"We wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has sent well wishes and prayers during this time. Your kindness means the world to us.

"Thank you for your understanding and continued support."

Mr Davis sent wellwishes on behalf of him and his wife Ann Marie, saying: "Ann and I send our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to former Prime Minister Perry Christie. We are encouraged by his strength and wish him a swift and full recovery. Our support and best wishes are with him and his family during this time."

UPDATE: On Sunday, Mr Christie's family said he was "progressing extremely well". In a statement to social media, the family said: "He recently underwent a successful procedure and continues to recover in good spirits."

The family thanked the medical team at Doctors Hospital "for their exceptional care and professionalism", adding: "We also want to express our deep gratitude to the Bahamian people for their support, well wishes and prayers during this time. Your kindness means the world to us."

UPDATE: The director of communications at the Office of the Prime Minister confirmed on Sunday that Mr Christie had been treated for symptoms of an acute heart condition. 

Latrae Rahming posted to social media that Mr Christie "underwent a successful corrective proceudre performed by interventional cardiologist Dr Bimal Francis and team". 

He added that Mr Christie "is now convalescing remarkably well. He is wake, alert, and in excellent spirits". 

He said Mr Christie is being managed by a team led by Dr Francis, intensivist Dr Adrian Cargill and cardiovascular surgeon Dr Duane Sands. 

Mr Rahming added: "PM Christie and his family are grateful for the outpouring of prayers and expressions of concern."

He said Mr Christie is expected to remain in hospital for several more days and phone calls and visits will be restricted, but that Mr Christie "looks forward to a complete recovery".