NEW YORK, Oct. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Rush Limbaugh today issued the following
statement on his radio program:
"You know I have always tried to be honest with you and open about my
life. So I need to tell you today that part of what you have heard and read
is correct. I am addicted to prescription pain medication.
"I first started taking prescription painkillers some years ago when my
doctor prescribed them to treat post surgical pain following spinal surgery.
Unfortunately, the surgery was unsuccessful and I continued to have severe
pain in my lower back and also in my neck due to herniated discs. I am still
experiencing that pain. Rather than opt for additional surgery for these
conditions, I chose to treat the pain with prescribed medication. This
medication turned out to be highly addictive.
"Over the past several years I have tried to break my dependence on pain
pills and, in fact, twice checked myself into medical facilities in an attempt
to do so. I have recently agreed with my physician about the next steps.
"Immediately following this broadcast, I am checking myself into a
treatment center for the next 30 days to once and for all break the hold this
highly addictive medication has on me. The show will continue during this
time, of course, with an array of guest hosts you have come to know and
respect.
"I am not making any excuses. You know, over the years athletes and
celebrities have emerged from treatment centers to great fanfare and praise
for conquering great demons. They are said to be great role models and
examples for others. Well, I am no role model. I refuse to let anyone think
I am doing something great here, when there are people you never hear about,
who face long odds and never resort to such escapes. They are the role
models. I am no victim and do not portray myself as such. I take full
responsibility for my problem.
"At the present time, the authorities are conducting an investigation, and
I have been asked to limit my public comments until this investigation is
complete. So I will only say that the stories you have read and heard contain
inaccuracies and distortions, which I will clear up when I am free to speak
about them.
"I deeply appreciate all your support over this last tumultuous week. It
has sustained me. I ask now for your prayers. I look forward to resuming our
excursion into broadcast excellence together."
For audio/video clip(s) of Rush Limbaugh's on-air statement, please go to
www.rushlimbaugh.com and/or www.premieretalk.com.
