U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, 74, announced she is being treated for pancreatic cancer this week.
Jackson Lee has been representing Texas’ 18th congressional district for 30 years.
In a statement, Jackson Lee said:
“My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis for pancreatic cancer.”
“I am currently undergoing treatment to battle this disease that impacts tens of thousands of Americans every year.”
“I am confident that my doctors have developed the best possible plan to target my specific disease,” she continued, per Fox News.
“The road ahead will not be easy, but I stand in faith that God will strengthen me.”
The congresswoman said she will “likely be occasionally absent from Congress” as she undergoes treatment.
She emphasized that her office will continue to deliver the constituent services they “deserve and expect.”
“I am committed to working with our Congressional Leadership including Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of House to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation that is critical for the prosperity and security of the American people,” she said.
“By God’s grace, I will be back at full strength soon.”
Jackson Lee was also diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011 before announcing the following year that she was cancer-free.
The Democrat was elected to an at-large Houston City Council seat in 1989 after serving as a judge.
In 2023, she ran an unsuccessful campaign for Houston mayor, losing to Democrat Sen. John Whitmire.
“My adult life has been defined by my faith in God, my love for humanity and my commitment to public service,” Jackson Lee said on Sunday.
“As a member of Congress, I’ve been honored to be one of the leaders in the fight for justice and equality for all; especially the disadvantaged and the dispossessed.”
“Today, my fight is more personal, but I will approach it with the same faith and the same courage.”
“Please keep me and my family in your prayers as you have always done. Know that you will remain in mine,” she concluded.
“As always, God bless you and God bless the United States of America.”
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