Texas Democratic representative Sheila Jackson Lee announced on Sunday that she is currently undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer but remains committed to fulfilling her legislative duties.
Jackson Lee, who has held the seat for the Texas 18th congressional district since 1995, lost last year in the Houston mayoral race to Democratic Senator John Whitmire. However, she won the Democratic primary earlier this year, securing her seat in Congress.
“My doctor has diagnosed me with pancreatic cancer. I am currently undergoing treatment to combat this disease that affects tens of thousands of Americans every year,” the 74-year-old congresswoman said in a statement.
“I believe my doctor has devised the best treatment plan for my specific condition. The road ahead won’t be easy, but I have faith that God will give me strength,” she added.
During her treatment, Jackson Lee mentioned that she may “occasionally be absent” from Congress but assured that her office will “continue to provide essential constituent services.”
She also expressed her commitment to working with congressional leadership, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of the House, to ensure “votes on legislation critical to the prosperity and security of the American people.”
“As a congresswoman, I am honored to be a leader in the fight for justice and equality for all, especially for marginalized communities and the disenfranchised. Today, my fight has become more personal, but I will approach it with the same conviction and courage,” she stated.
“With the grace of God, I will soon be back to my best. Please continue to pray for me and my family as usual. Know that you are also in my prayers,” Jackson Lee added.
In her statement, the Democratic lawmaker did not disclose the severity of her pancreatic cancer. According to the Mayo Clinic, pancreatic cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages as it typically does not cause symptoms until it has spread to other organs.
As early as 2012, Jackson Lee revealed that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer but had fully recovered after undergoing extensive treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.