Rep. Gerry Connolly just won reelection.
Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) has announced on Nov. 7 that he has been diagnosed with cancer.
He expressed his surprise at the diagnosis as he had been experiencing no symptoms apart from intermittent abdominal pain.
Connolly has decided to start chemotherapy and immunotherapy immediately.
“Cancer can be tough. But so am I. I will attack this the only way I know how—with Irish fight and humor,” he stated.
The congressman mentioned the presence of a great medical team who are assisting in his treatment, expressing confidence in overcoming the cancer.
Related Stories
“Over the next few months as I do my job here in our district and on the Hill, I may be a bit fatigued due to the treatment. I hope you’ll understand,” he said. “Be assured I’m full of hope and am sustained by the love, support, and encouragement of my family, friends, and all of you.”
Connolly currently represents Virginia’s 11th Congressional District in northern Virginia, having been first elected in 2008.
He secured his reelection victory over Republican Mike Van Meter on Nov. 5 with 66.4 percent of the vote, according to the Virginia Department of Elections.
The esophagus serves as a tube that transports food and liquid from the throat to the stomach.
Early detection plays a critical role in the treatment and recovery of esophageal cancer, alongside factors such as the patient’s overall health.
If a vacancy arises in a Virginia seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, Gov. Glenn Youngkin would arrange a special election to fill the position.
Currently, the lower chamber is under Republican control. With several races yet to be determined, Republicans hold 207 seats in the upcoming Congress, while Democrats hold 193 seats.
