On Wednesday, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee announced that she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. In a statement released by her office, the 71-year-old representative from Houston expressed that she will be undergoing treatment for the disease.
Pancreatic cancer is known to have one of the lowest survival rates among all types of cancer. According to recent statistics, only 10% of patients diagnosed with this disease survive past five years. This news has raised concerns among Jackson Lee’s constituents, who are worried about her well-being and absence in Congress.
Jackson Lee has been representing Texas’ 18th congressional district since 1995 and is currently serving her 13th term in office. She is known for her advocacy on civil rights and criminal justice reform, as well as being a strong voice for the African-American community.
Upon hearing about her diagnosis, many of Jackson Lee’s colleagues and fellow politicians have expressed their support and well-wishes for her recovery. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tweeted, “Sending love and prayers to my dear friend Sheila Jackson Lee as she begins treatment for pancreatic cancer. We all stand with you in this fight.”
Jackson Lee also took the opportunity to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer and its impact on communities of color. According to data from the American Cancer Society, African-Americans are more likely to develop this type of cancer at a younger age compared to other ethnic groups.
The congresswoman urged individuals to prioritize their health and get regular check-ups, as early detection is key in fighting pancreatic cancer. She also called for continued research and funding for treatments and a potential cure.
Despite her diagnosis, Jackson Lee remains determined to continue serving her constituents. In her statement, she assured the public that she will still be involved in congressional matters while undergoing treatment.
In light of her absence, Jackson Lee’s office has set up a hotline for constituents who need assistance with federal agencies or have any concerns. Her staff will also continue to hold virtual meetings with community leaders and attend events on her behalf.
As one of the longest-serving members of Congress from Texas, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee has been a strong advocate for her district and the nation as a whole. Her health battle is a reminder to all of us to take care of ourselves and support those who are facing similar challenges. We wish her a speedy recovery and hope to see her back in Congress soon.
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