Rep. Mark DeSaulnier Returns Home From Hospital

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — Congressman Mark DeSaulnier returned home from a Washington, D.C., hospital over the weekend, his family announced, more than a month and a half after he was hospitalized for pneumonia he developed after suffering a traumatic rib injury during a run.

DeSaulnier is "eager to get back to California," but he will continue recovering in Washington until doctors determine it is safe for him to fly, his family said in a statement Monday.

"We want to say thank you, on our dad’s behalf, to everyone who has reached out and everyone who has been pulling for him," said his sons, Tristan and Tucker DeSaulnier. "Your thoughts, prayers and compassion have helped sustain him throughout this experience. We are also eternally grateful to the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff who helped save our dad’s life."

DeSaulnier, a Democrat from Contra Costa County, was first hospitalized in mid-March, according to his office, which initially said he was in serious but stable condition. Days later, however, his office said his condition had deteriorated and that he was listed as critical.

DeSaulnier, 68, tested negative for COVID-19, according to his office. He lives in Concord, and his official biography describes him as an "avid runner," having completed 21 marathons.

"While he’s made truly remarkable progress and has come so far, our dad still has work to do, and we appreciate his friends and constituents affording him time and support as the next phase of his recovery begins," DeSaulnier's sons said Monday.

The 11th Congressional District covers most of Contra Costa County, including Concord, El Cerrito, Lamorinda, Pleasant Hill, Richmond, Walnut Creek, most of Danville and parts of Martinez.