By Zoila Palma: It has been 46 days since Area Representative for Orange Walk South and former Minister of Agriculture Jose Abelardo Mai underwent successful surgery at Angeles Hospital in Zone 11, Guatemala City. This weekend, Mai did an exclusive interview with Breaking Belize News (BBN), and he indicated that he is making steady progress towards recovery.
Mai’s initial consultation with Dr. Carlos René Rayo, a well-known specialist in vertebral surgery in Guatemala, took place on March 4, 2026. Following a thorough clinical evaluation and additional diagnostic studies, the medical team, led by Dr. Rayo, determined that addressing a chronic condition in his right knee was necessary before proceeding with corrective measures for his spine, specifically the L3, L4, and S1 regions.
On March 10, 2026, Mai underwent a complete knee replacement in Guatemala. The procedure was carried out with the assistance of Dr. Pedro Pablo Alfaro, a specialist in knee replacement surgery. Mai remained in Guatemala for 18 days to prepare for and recover from the operation. 
Mai returned to Belize on March 20, and has since been undergoing therapy for both his knee and spine. However, due to difficulties walking and placing excess weight on his left leg, Mai said he experienced significant pain in his lower spine and left leg. He therefore consulted with his doctors in Guatemala, who prescribed medication along with an intensive therapy regimen.
Mai told BBN that these interventions have brought good results and that his leg extension is nearing full recovery, while knee flexion—typically the most challenging aspect—has reached 95 degrees, which therapists describe as a significant improvement.
Based on the the recommendations of the medical experts, upcoming therapy sessions will focus on strengthening the muscles around the knee to provide better support and stability. 
During the interview with BBN, Mai said he was “thankful to all those who visited, expressed ‘get well’ wishes or sent ‘recover soon’ gifts”.
While on recovery, Mai continues to lead developments in his Orange Walk South constituency. He also has not faltered in offering valuable advise in agriculture while staying abreast of the positive developments particularly in the cattle, sugar and traditional sectors as well as the budding coconut industry that is set to experience a major boost in exports this year.
The former Minister of Agriculture is expected to continue therapy for another month and plans to return to Guatemala soon for a follow-up evaluation.
The post Jose Mai recovering well following knee replacement surgery and therapy appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: It has been 46 days since Area Representative for Orange Walk South and former Minister of Agriculture Jose Abelardo Mai underwent successful surgery at Angeles Hospital in Zone 11, Guatemala City. This weekend, Mai did an exclusive interview with Breaking Belize News (BBN), and he indicated that he is making steady progress
The post Jose Mai recovering well following knee replacement surgery and therapy appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
