Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat who represents Texas' 18th congressional district, has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, she announced in a statement Sunday evening.
“My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer,” said Jackson Lee. “I am currently undergoing treatment to combat this disease that affects tens of thousands of Americans every year.”
The 74-year-old said the treatment would mean she will likely be “absent from Congress from time to time” but said she will work with congressional leadership “to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation that is crucial for prosperity and security'. of the American people.”
Jackson Lee's district includes parts of Houston and she has represented the district for nearly three decades. She ran unsuccessfully for mayor of the city last year, but lost to then-State Senator John Whitmire, also a Democrat. She faced a significant challenge for her seat in Congress this year, but easily won that race.
Jackson Lee has not provided any details about the severity of the cancer or what her treatment will be. Pancreatic cancer is not often found in the early stages and tends not to show symptoms until it has progressed, according to Mayo Clinic.
