“I have confidence”: Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee announces pancreatic cancer diagnosis

HOUSTON – Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee announced Sunday that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

In a statement, Lee said she was currently undergoing treatment to combat the disease.

“To the voters of the 18th Congressional District: Serving as your representative in Congress for 30 years is one of my greatest honors. Your hopes and aspirations inspire my efforts on behalf of our community every day. As I continue my treatment, it is likely that I will occasionally be absent from Congress, but rest assured that my office will continue to provide the vital services you deserve and expect,” Lee said in the statement.

You can read Sheila Jackson Lee’s full statement below:

“My adult life has been defined by my faith in God, my love for humanity and my commitment to public service. As a member of Congress, I have had the honor of being 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.

“My doctors confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. I am currently undergoing treatment to combat this disease which affects tens of thousands of Americans each year.

“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 am confident that God will strengthen me.

“To the voters of the 18th Congressional District: Serving as your representative in Congress for 30 years is one of my greatest honors. Your hopes and aspirations inspire my efforts on behalf of our community every day. While I continue my treatment, it is likely that I will occasionally be absent from Congress, but rest assured that my office will continue to provide the vital services you deserve and expect.

“I am committed to working with our congressional leaders, including Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of the House, to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation critical to the prosperity and security of the American people. By the grace of God, I will soon be back in great shape.

“Please keep me and my family in your prayers as you always have. Know that you will stay in mine. As always, God bless you and God bless the United States of America.