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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Senate Majority Leader Ralph Okerlund left the hospital with a new perspective Tuesday after collapsing in a hallway during the legislative session last week.
The Monroe Republican posted a message on the Senate website saying he "experienced a heart failure caused by elevated levels of potassium in my blood."
On Tuesday afternoon he reported that "my levels are evenly balanced and my heart is working fine," and that he was going home to recuperate. He said doctors told him that with some rest, he would be able to return to normal activities.
Okerlund was rushed to the hospital after several people found him passed out in a hallway last Wednesday, the next to the last day of the 2014 Legislature. He has a history of heart problems.
"My wife and I are grateful for the kind thoughts and prayers of so many of you over the last several days and for the blessing of capable emergency responders," he said.
Okerlund said the episode made him think about his priorities.
"To see what a fine line exists between being here and being on the other side of the veil is amazing," he said. "Being able to help in the Legislature is important, but life, family and being with your grandchildren are what really matter. I hope to remember the proper balance, and I hope we can all remember that balance as we continue to serve."
Okerlund said he plans to attend legislative interim meetings in May.
