Governor General Mary Simon has been discharged from the hospital and is now recovering at home. The 78-year-old head of state was hospitalized due to a respiratory illness, which caused her to miss the Remembrance Day ceremony in Ottawa earlier this week.

In a statement released by Rideau Hall, it was confirmed that Simon is continuing her recovery in residence. She looks forward to resuming her full duties in the near future. The statement expressed gratitude from Simon and her partner, Mr. Whit Fraser, to the hospital staff for their excellent care. They also thanked Canadians for their kind messages and well wishes during her illness.

Simon was hospitalized after experiencing symptoms related to a respiratory virus. While the specific virus has not been disclosed, Rideau Hall indicated that she was doing well during her stay. Chief Justice Richard Wagner stepped in to represent Simon at the National War Memorial during the Remembrance Day ceremony on Tuesday.

The statement from Rideau Hall also noted that Wagner, who serves as the deputy governor general, will represent Simon during an upcoming state visit by King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden. Simon has held the position of Governor General since 2021, making her the first Indigenous person to serve in this role in Canada.

As she continues her recovery, Simon remains appreciative of the support she has received and is expected to return to her regular duties soon.