Jo Ann Emerson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, suffered a brain hemorrhage and had surgery while vacationing in Italy. She currently is in stable condition.

Emerson joined NRECA in 2013 after having spent 16 years as a Republican U.S. representative for Missouri. Prior to her political career, Emerson was senior vice president of public affairs for the American Insurance Association and director of state relations and grassroots programs for the National Restaurant Association.

In an Aug. 13 email to staff, NRECA said Emerson's doctors would keep her sedated for approximately five days to aid in her recovery. The group also said Emerson's family was prepared for when she is cleared to travel back to the U.S. from Italy.

"We appreciate the outpouring of support and prayers from her former colleagues in Congress, her many friends, and the members and employees of the electric cooperative community," NRECA said in a press statement.

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