Ex-Hostage Polhill Has Growth on Vocal Cords; Biopsy Planned

Freed hostage Robert Polhill has a growth of undetermined nature on his vocal cords, an Army doctor disclosed today as Polhill urged Americans to join him in showing that they want to “close the file on the hostage issue.”

Polhill’s prepared statement was read by his Lebanese-born wife, Feryal, at a news conference at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, where the released hostage is being treated.

Dr. Russ Zajtchuk, chief of clinical services at the hospital, said that Polhill, a diabetic, “has lost a lot of weight and has a growth on his left vocal cords.” The doctor said the growth could be a tumor or it could be an infection. He said a biopsy would be performed as soon as Polhill regains sufficient strength.

“I regret that, at the moment, I am unable to thank you more directly and personally,” Polhill said in the prepared statement. “But my voice decided to go on vacation before I did. However, I do want you to know how very much I appreciate the warmth and sincerity of your welcome and the support you’ve given my wife and family, who join me in hoping that this is the beginning of the end to the hostage situation.”