Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) announced that she has pancreatic cancer on Sunday, predicting that treatment could cause her to be “occasionally absent” from Congress.
Jackson Lee, 74, who survived a primary challenge in March after losing a bid to be mayor of Houston last year, said he is optimistic about a recovery.
“My doctors confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer,” she wrote in a declaration. “I am currently undergoing treatment to combat this disease that affects tens of thousands of Americans every year.”
“I am confident that my doctors have developed the best plan possible to treat my specific illness,” she continued. “The path ahead will not be easy, but I have faith that God will strengthen me.”
A member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Lee was first elected to Congress in 1995. She serves as the ranking member of the Judiciary Committee’s subcommittee on crime.
Jackson Lee said he will likely be present at the most critical votes during treatment.
“I am committed to working with our Congressional leadership, including Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of the House, to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation that is critical to the prosperity and security of the American people,” she said. “By the grace of God, I will be back with full strength soon.”
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