Lasse Lehtonen, the long-time director of Kela who had been away from public view, is publicly thanking the healthcare system for the treatment and rehabilitation he received following a severe illness. In an interview with Maaseudun Tulevaisuus, he detailed his illness and the progress of his recovery, acknowledging the exemplary care he received in various hospitals. His shout-out extends to the support from Kela’s occupational healthcare services, underscoring the collective effort involved in his recovery.

Lehtonen became seriously ill at the beginning of December and has been on medical leave since then. Recently, he opened up about his situation, revealing critical details about his health crisis. He emphasized that his son's timely knowledge and response were pivotal in saving his life, as he faced life-threatening complications from elevated intracranial pressure that could have led to respiratory failure if not addressed promptly.

His public acknowledgment and thanks come in the wake of strong reactions on social media, where many users have expressed their concern and support for Lehtonen during this difficult time. His experience highlights not only the importance of timely medical intervention but also the role of family and friends in the recovery process, echoing a broader message on the value of healthcare support and community bonds during personal crises.