Skip to content

Gordon Smith Health Update: ‘Prognosis Is Extremely Positive’

Gordon Smith

The MAB Newsletter reported last Friday (8/7) that NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith suffered a stroke on the Wednesday prior. However, it was not a stroke, with Smith releasing a statement late Thursday (8/6) through the NAB saying, “I am delighted to tell you that after a very extensive MRI last night it was discovered that I did have a blood clot, but thanks to the quick medical intervention I received, an actual stroke was averted.”

Gordon Smith also thanked those who offered an “outpouring of support,” adding, “Your prayers and kind words have meant the world to me and my family.

Smith agreed in September 2017 to a contract extension that will keep him at the helm of the trade group through 2023. A former two-term U.S. Senator from Oregon (1996-2008), Smith joined the NAB in 2009 and agreed to a contract extension in September, 2017 that will keep him running the NAB through 2023.

Following is the complete message from Smith:

To my friends,

I am so grateful for the outpouring of support from all of you. Your prayers and kind words have meant the world to me and my family. I am delighted to tell you that after a very extensive MRI last night it was discovered that I did have a blood clot, but thanks to the quick medical intervention I received, an actual stroke was averted. As a result, my prognosis is extremely positive and there is no permanent damage. I am so grateful to Sharon for immediately jumping into action and getting me the medical attention needed in order to have this outcome, for Sue Keenom and Karen Wright for all of their help getting information to my medical team, and to the doctors and nurses who took such great care of me.

I am indeed a man blessed for all the prayers that were said on my behalf and for the love that I have felt. Even though I am not often on social media I have been forwarded the many Tweets and postings that have sent well wishes my way and to say I am humbled is an understatement. I look forward to seeing you all soon – if only on Zoom.

Gratefully,

Gordon

Scroll To Top