Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey Undergoes Minor Procedure

The 81-year-old governor had fluid drained from her chest after experiencing discomfort and shortness of breath.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:48am

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Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey was hospitalized on March 31 after undergoing a minor procedure to remove fluid that was pressing against her lung. Ivey, a cancer survivor, had been experiencing discomfort and shortness of breath for the past three weeks. After consulting her primary care physician, it was recommended that she be evaluated by a surgeon, who determined there was fluid pushing against her lung. Ivey successfully underwent the procedure at Baptist Medical Center South in Montgomery and will be monitored at the hospital in the coming days.

Why it matters

As the governor of Alabama, Ivey's health and wellbeing are of significant public interest. This incident highlights the challenges that public officials can face in balancing their health needs with the demands of their high-profile roles. Ivey's previous battle with lung cancer also adds an additional layer of concern for her constituents.

The details

According to Ivey's communications director, Gina Maiola, the governor had been experiencing discomfort in her left side for the past three weeks and recently felt slightly short of breath. After consulting her primary care physician on March 31, it was recommended that Ivey be evaluated by a surgeon, who determined there was fluid pushing against her lung. Ivey then underwent a minor procedure at Baptist Medical Center South in Montgomery to remove the fluid.

  • Ivey had been experiencing discomfort in her left side for the past three weeks.
  • Ivey consulted her primary care physician on March 31.
  • Ivey underwent the minor procedure on March 31.

The players

Kay Ivey

The 81-year-old Republican governor of Alabama who is serving her second full term in office. Ivey is a cancer survivor, having been diagnosed with Stage I lung cancer in 2019.

Gina Maiola

Ivey's communications director, who provided details about the governor's medical procedure.

Dr. Alex Whitley

Ivey's oncologist, who previously stated that the governor was considered 'cured' of her lung cancer after successful radiation treatments in 2019.

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What they’re saying

“While it was not emergent, Gov. Ivey wanted to get the procedure done as soon as possible so she can quickly get back to 100 percent to wrap up the 2026 (legislative) regular session.”

— Gina Maiola, Communications Director for Gov. Kay Ivey

“She will continue on routine surveillance imaging, but I consider Governor Ivey to be cured.”

— Dr. Alex Whitley, Ivey's Oncologist

What’s next

Ivey will be monitored at Baptist Medical Center South in the coming days as she recovers from the minor procedure.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the unique health challenges that public officials can face, especially those with a history of serious illness like cancer. Ivey's proactive approach to addressing her recent discomfort and the prompt medical attention she received highlight the importance of prioritizing one's health, even in the midst of demanding political responsibilities.