Gerry Connolly, a representative from Virginia, has announced that he has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer, two days after being re-elected to a ninth term in the US House of Representatives.
Connolly, 74, shared the news of his health in a statement to X on Thursday, November 7, in a post titled: “Note to my constituents.”
“Dear friends, a few days ago I found out that I joined the ranks of millions of Americans. I have esophageal cancer. It was a surprise because, apart from occasional stomach pains, I had no symptoms,” he wrote. .
“I will immediately undergo chemotherapy and immunotherapy,” he continued. “Cancer can be tough. But so am I. I’m going to attack this the only way I know how – with Irish fighting and humor.”
Connolly wrote that he foresees a “successful outcome,” asking his constituents for understanding if he shows signs of fatigue at work during treatment.
Rep. Gerry Connolly during a hearing of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee on September 28, 2023.
Anna Rose Layden/Bloomberg via Getty
The congressman added in his announcement that he is “full of hope” and encouraged by the love and support of his family, friends “and all of you”.
“My wonderful staff and I look forward to serving you in this new term and into the future. It is a privilege to represent and serve each of you. See you at the pageant,” Connolly wrote at the end, signing off the post as “Your friend and public servant.” .
Connolly, a Democrat, has served in Virginia’s 11th Congressional District since 2008. He easily defeated Republican Mike Van Meter to secure another term on Tuesday, November 5.
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“Thank you to the voters of Virginia’s 11th district for once again showing their faith in me. It has been the honor of my life to serve you and I will fight for our values in the next Congress,” Connolly’s campaign said in a message after his election night victory.
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Source: HIS Education