Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee announces cancer diagnosis

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a long-serving Democratic Congresswoman representing Texas's 18th district, revealed on Sunday, March 5, 2023, that she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The announcement came via a statement released by her office.

Jackson Lee, 71, was first elected to Congress in 1994 and currently serves as a senior member of the House Judiciary Committee and the Congressional Black Caucus. Her district covers parts of Houston and its surrounding areas.

In her statement, Jackson Lee expressed her determination to continue serving her constituents despite her diagnosis. "I am committed to my fight for the people of Houston and Texas," she said. "I will undergo treatment and will keep my colleagues, staff, and constituents updated on my progress."

Pancreatic cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the pancreas, an organ located in the abdomen that produces digestive enzymes and hormones like insulin. According to the American Cancer Society, it is one of the deadliest types of cancers, with a five-year relative survival rate of just 9%.

Jackson Lee's announcement comes at a time when the Democratic Party holds a slim majority in the House of Representatives, with 222 seats compared to the Republicans' 212. Her absence could potentially impact her party's ability to pass legislation during her treatment. However, her office has not yet provided details about the length or nature of her absence from Congress.

The news of Jackson Lee's diagnosis was met with an outpouring of support from her colleagues in Congress, as well as from her constituents and various organizations. The American Cancer Society, for instance, offered its assistance in any way possible to help her during her treatment.

Despite the challenges ahead, Jackson Lee remains optimistic about her future. "I am confident in my ability to overcome this challenge," she said in her statement. "I will continue to work hard for my constituents in Congress and look forward to returning to Washington as soon as possible."

As of now, there is no further information regarding her specific treatment plan or prognosis. The Congresswoman's office has asked for privacy during this time as she focuses on her health and recovery.

In conclusion, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a 71-year-old Democratic Congresswoman representing Texas's 18th district, announced on March 5, 2023, that she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and will be undergoing treatment. Pancreatic cancer is a deadly type of cancer with a low five-year survival rate, but Jackson Lee remains optimistic about her ability to overcome this challenge and continue serving her constituents. Her absence from Congress could potentially impact her party's ability to pass legislation during her treatment, but her office has not yet provided details about the length or nature of her absence. The news of her diagnosis was met with an outpouring of support from her colleagues and constituents.