Donald Trump
On July 17, 2025, the White House announced that President Donald Trump, aged 79, has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a common circulatory condition that affects blood flow in the legs.
The diagnosis came after Trump noticed mild swelling in his lower legs, prompting a comprehensive medical examination.
This health update has sparked public interest, particularly as it coincides with renewed controversy surrounding a reported birthday letter allegedly sent by Trump to Jeffrey Epstein in 2003.
Here, we delve into the details of Trump’s medical condition and the Epstein letter saga, shedding light on both developments.
Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency is a condition where the veins in the legs struggle to return blood to the heart due to damaged or weakened valves.
This leads to blood pooling in the lower extremities, causing symptoms such as swelling, aching, varicose veins, and, in severe cases, leg ulcers.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, CVI affects approximately 1 in 20 adults in the U.S., with the risk increasing with age, particularly in individuals over 70.
Other risk factors include obesity, prolonged sitting or standing, and a family history of venous disorders.
The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, addressed the diagnosis during a July 17 press briefing, reading a memo from Trump’s physician, Capt. Sean Barbabella.
The memo detailed that Trump underwent diagnostic vascular studies, including bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds, which confirmed CVI.
Importantly, tests ruled out more serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), arterial disease, heart failure, or renal impairment.
Barbabella emphasized that Trump’s lab results were within normal limits, and an echocardiogram showed normal cardiac function, affirming that the president remains in “excellent health.
The Epstein Birthday Letter Controversy
Trump has been embroiled in a controversy sparked by a Wall Street Journal report claiming he sent a birthday letter to Jeffrey Epstein for his 50th birthday in 2003.
The letter, allegedly part of a leather-bound birthday book, reportedly featured a hand-drawn outline of a nude woman with Trump’s signature styled as a “squiggly ‘Donald’” below her waist, mimicking pubic hair. The letter concluded with, Happy Birthday — and may every day be another wonderful secret.
Trump vehemently denied writing the letter, calling it a “hoax” and threatening to sue the Wall Street Journal. He stated on social media that the language was “not the way I talk” and directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to pursue the release of “pertinent” Epstein grand jury records to address public demand for transparency.
The Epstein case has long been a lightning rod for speculation, particularly among Trump’s MAGA base, who have pushed for the release of an alleged “client list.
The Trump administration’s handling of Epstein-related records has drawn scrutiny, with some House Republicans, including Reps. Chip Roy and Ralph Norman, advocating for a vote to release more documents. This push has complicated efforts to pass Trump’s $9 billion spending cuts package, as some GOP members demand transparency on Epstein.
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