Google CEO Goes Public on Vocal Cord Issue

Google CEO Larry Page announced today on his Google+ profile that he has long been afflicted by a rare vocal cord paralysis. He was initially diagnosed with "left vocal cord paralysis" about 14 years ago, but more recently became afflicted in his right vocal cord last summer.

In a rare instance of a CEO speaking directly to the public about his health issues, Page notes that the last year has seen some improvement, although his ability to exercise or raise his voice is somewhat reduced.

As a positive (and humorous) sign to investors, Page notes that Google Co-Founder Sergey Brin "says I'm probably a better CEO because I choose my words more carefully."

Looking ahead, the Google executive is taking advantage of his celebrity to bring further awareness and research data to this rare condition. Partnering with the Voice Health Institute, Page released a survey link on his post for anyone with similar symptoms to fill out.

At the time of this writing, Page's post had received more than 100 comments, 300 shares, and 1,000 "+1"s.

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Fool contributor Justin Loiseau owns shares of Google. You can follow him on Twitter @TMFJLo and on Motley Fool CAPS @TMFJLo.The Motley Fool recommends and owns shares of Google. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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