Rep. Jennifer Wexton, Democrat of Virginia, has been bravely battling Progressive Supra-nuclear Palsy while serving in Congress. Wexton announced her retirement from Congress in September 2023, citing her deteriorating health as the reason for stepping down at the end of her term in January 2025.
Progressive Supra-nuclear Palsy, often described as “Parkinson’s on steroids,” has no cure and tends to worsen rapidly. It affects movement, balance, speech, and vision. Wexton has been experiencing severe fatigue and challenges with mobility and speech due to her condition.
The recent chaotic and intense 10-week schedule in the House of Representatives has taken a significant toll on Wexton’s health. She has missed therapy appointments, experienced exhaustion, and even sustained a fall at her home, leading to neck injury and persistent pain.
Despite these challenges, Wexton remains determined to continue her work in Congress. She is passionate about advocating for childhood cancer research and wants to focus on legislative accomplishments and advocacy during her remaining time in office.
Wexton’s colleagues and staff have been supportive, and she continues to engage with them using text-to-voice technology and text messages. Despite the difficulties posed by her illness, she remains committed to serving her constituents and pushing forward on important issues.
As Wexton navigates the final months of her congressional career, her inspiring resilience and dedication to her constituents and causes continue to shine through, even in the face of tremendous challenges.