Tennessee State Senator Steve Southerland suffered a heart-related medical emergency Monday and was taken to a Nashville hospital.
Representative David Hawk said that Southerland became ill around 3PM Nashville time while at his desk in the Senate Chambers. Two physicians who also serve as Senators responded and were able to stabilize Southerland while an ambulance was called. Capitol medical staff also helped care for Southerland.
Hawk said that he had spoken with Southerland’s family, and that he had received treatment at the hospital and was still undergoing tests. His family said that he was feeling much better, and while they did not know when he might be released from the hospital, they were optimistic in a full recovery.
Southerland represents Greene, Cocke, Unicoi, and Hamblen Counties, and parts of Sevier Counties as the District 9 Senator.
Hawk said that Southerland wished to express his thanks and that the family appreciated the prayers that had been lifted up and asked that they continue for his fully recovery.
