‘I can’t run quite like I did’: President Higgins gives health update

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

The President has acknowledged ongoing “balance problems” following a stroke earlier this year.

Michael D Higgins was admitted to hospital in February after experiencing what was described at the time as a “mild transient weakness” but which was later revealed to be a mild form of stroke.

The stroke had affected his left side, including his hand and hip, and had exacerbated problems with his lower back.

Speaking to reporters at the National Ploughing Championships, Mr Higgins said: “On February 29th, I had my stroke in my office.

“It affected my left side, it had no affect on me cognitively.

“I spent a week in hospital and I didn’t cancel anything.”

Balancing on two walking sticks, he added: “As I’m coming through the physiotherapy, sometimes I have balance problems and that’s why I chose (the sticks).

“I have from previous times very heavy arthritis – the culmination of all of this means I can’t run quite like I did.”

The 83-year-old thanked the people of Ireland for their support.

He said they had been kind and “appreciative of the fact that I need go to my seat in a particular stadium a bit slower”.