L.A. councilwoman returns to office after collapsing

Los Angeles City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez returned to work Monday, five days after collapsing during a medical emergency at her City Hall office, an aide said.

Paramedics from the city’s Fire Department responded Wednesday to Rodriguez’s fourth-floor office, where the councilwoman had fallen to the floor while suffering a seizure, spokesperson Laura McKinney said.

Rodriguez was taken to L.A. County-USC Medical Center. She suffered minor scrapes and bruises as a result of her fall but is feeling better, the aide said.

“The councilwoman has seen her doctor and is having additional tests done,” McKinney said.

The medical emergency took place a day after Rodriguez was reelected to represent a San Fernando Valley district that takes in Sylmar, Pacoima, Sunland-Tujunga and other communities. Rodriguez easily defeated her opponent, community advocate Elisa Avalos.

Rodriguez was absent from council and committee meetings Thursday and Friday.

She did, however, deliver the commencement address Thursday evening at the graduation ceremony of San Fernando High School, her alma mater, McKinney said.

On Monday, the councilwoman returned to the office virtually, participating in meetings, McKinney said. Rodriguez is scheduled to attend Tuesday’s council meeting.