Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) disclosed on Sunday night that she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, emphasizing her trust in God to help her endure.
“My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer,” she posted on X. “I am currently undergoing treatment to combat this disease that affects tens of thousands of Americans annually.”
“I am confident that my doctors have crafted the best possible plan to address my specific condition. The journey ahead will be challenging, but I have faith that God will give me strength.”
Jackson Lee reassured her constituents in Texas’s 18th Congressional District that, despite potential absences from Congress, her office will continue to serve them as it has for nearly three decades.
“I am dedicated to collaborating with our Congressional Leadership, including Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of the House, to serve this nation and be present for votes on crucial legislation that impacts the prosperity and security of the American people,” she continued in her statement. “By God’s grace, I will be back at full strength soon.”
Jackson Lee, 74, has been representing the Lone Star State’s 18th Congressional District in Congress since 1995. The district includes much of Houston, the state’s largest city.
She suffered a significant defeat in her bid to become Houston’s next mayor in December, losing to Democratic state Sen. John Whitmire. Two days afterward, she filed for reelection to Congress. In March, she emerged victorious in the Democratic primary, although it was the most contested primary of her congressional career, per the Texas Tribune.
Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison extended his well-wishes in response to her announcement. “Sending you healing thoughts and keeping you in my prayers Congresswoman!” he wrote.
Jackson Lee is slated to run against Republican Lana Centonze in November.
