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.
