Rep. Bell back in Iowa after falling ill abroad in Turkey

State Rep. Paul Bell of Newton arrived in Des Moines by special air carrier early Sunday morning from Istanbul, Turkey. Accompanying Bell on the 20-hour flight was his wife, Niki.

According to State Senator Dennis Black, Rep. Bell was leading a Friendship Tour of Turkey when he fell ill. He was transported to a hospital, where he was kept for four days. An unspecific diagnosis of his illness prompted Bell to request a return to the U. S., but transportation was unobtainable under regular public carrier. Thus, the Bells were readied for the trip, going first to Munich, Germany, where they were joined by a Medical Team. The private jet carrier made stops in Iceland, Newfoundland, and Canada for refueling before the final leg to Des Moines, where they were transported by ambulance to Iowa Methodist Hospital.

Representative Bell and Senator Black had spent the previous week in Taiwan on a trade mission, returning two days prior to the Bell’s departure to Turkey. While home, Bell had visited a hospital to make sure his health was fine prior to the trip to Turkey.

After a day in Istanbul, and a trip south to the ancient city of Ephesus, Rep. Bell started feeling ill, and was returned to his hotel. While there, he experienced a deteriorating condition, and was taken to a hospital in Istanbul, where he received adequate care to keep him stable and comfortable. Basic tests were taken, the results of which accompanied the Bells back to Iowa and to Iowa Methodist.

Senator Black spoke with Rep. Bell on Sunday morning, and according to Black, “Paul sounded strong, rested, and anxious to watch his beloved Yankees play in Sunday’s game.” Bell will undergo tests at Iowa Methodist beginning Monday in order to receive a more modernized diagnosis of any medical problems that might exist.

Family members or Senator Black will keep the Daily News apprised of when he is able to see visitors or receive phone calls.