Betty Montgomery hospitalized

Ohio Auditor Betty Montgomery was admitted to Ohio State University Medical Center Wednesday for complications following a respiratory virus.

Although testing is still ongoing, Montgomery is currently being treated for Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), an inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nerves, according to a news statement. The condition is not life threatening, however progression of the disorder can be unpredictable and, as is typical for most cases of GBS, Montgomery is receiving treatment in the hospital’s intensive care unit.

As much as 50 percent of GBS cases develop following a viral infection. Montgomery had been suffering from a chest cold and cough for a little over a week.

“We’re glad that Auditor Montgomery is getting the treatment she needs,” said Chief of Staff Deb Hackathorn. “We look forward to her speedy recovery and return to the office.”


Although the recovery prognosis is good, Montgomery will be hospitalized for an indeterminate amount of time for treatment and observation, her aides said. She anticipates a complete recovery, but different people are affected differently by this syndrome and it is difficult to predict an exact recovery date.

Montgomery is in good spirits and resting comfortably, according to spokeswoman, Jen Detwiler.