Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee announces pancreatic cancer diagnosis

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee has made public that she is undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer.

“My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. I am currently undergoing treatment to battle this disease that impacts tens of thousands of Americans every year,” the Texas Democrat said Sunday night in a statement.

“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 stand in faith that God will strengthen me.”

The 15-term congresswoman said she expects to be “occasionally absent” from the House while undergoing her treatment. 

Jackson Lee, who represents Texas’ 18th District, which includes parts of Houston, recently won a primary election to regain her seat in November. Last year, she lost in her bid to be Houston's mayor.