Democratic Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas disclosed on Sunday that she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, a serious health challenge that will necessitate her occasional absence from Congress as she undergoes treatment. The announcement was made through a heartfelt statement that conveyed both the severity of her condition and her determination to face it head-on.
“My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. I am currently undergoing treatment to battle this disease that impacts tens of thousands of Americans every year,” Jackson Lee revealed. She expressed confidence in her medical team, stating, “I am confident that my doctors have developed the best possible plan to target my specific disease. The road ahead will not be easy, but I stand in faith that God will strengthen me.”
Jackson Lee, a veteran congresswoman serving her 15th term, has been a prominent political figure in Texas. Despite an unsuccessful mayoral bid in Houston last year, she successfully defended her seat in the deep-blue 18th Congressional District earlier this year, securing 60% of the vote against a former congressional intern.
In her statement, Jackson Lee addressed the implications of her diagnosis for her role in Congress. “As I pursue my treatments, it is likely that I will be occasionally absent from Congress, but rest assured my office will continue to deliver the vital constituent services that you deserve and expect,” she assured her constituents. This commitment reflects her dedication to her role and the responsibilities it entails, even as she faces significant personal health challenges.
Moreover, the congresswoman affirmed her intention to stay engaged with critical legislative activities. She noted her commitment to working with congressional leadership and ensuring her presence for votes on key legislation, emphasizing the importance of continuing her work for “the prosperity and security of the American people.”
Jackson Lee concluded her statement with a hopeful note about her future, stating, “By God’s grace, I will be back at full strength soon”, via Fox News. This expression of resilience and optimism highlights her resolve to overcome her illness and return to her duties with renewed vigor.
The congresswoman’s diagnosis brings attention to the broader issue of pancreatic cancer, a disease that affects many but often remains under-discussed. As she undergoes treatment, Jackson Lee’s situation serves as a reminder of the personal battles many public figures face behind the scenes, and the strength they muster in continuing to serve their communities.