Democrat Sheila Jackson Lee Diagnosed With Cancer. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) has announced that she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and is currently undergoing treatment. Lee, who has served 15 terms in Congress, stated that she is likely to miss time in Congress due to her treatment but will continue to work with congressional leadership to serve the nation. Her office will continue to support constituents without interruption. Lee’s announcement has generated well wishes from across the political spectrum.
Lee, 74, represents Congressional District 18, a seat she has held for 30 years. In March, she defeated challenger Amanda Edwards, a former Houston City Councilwoman, in the most competitive primary of her congressional career. Prior to the March primary, Lee had only drawn four primary challengers, and she defeated all of them by significant margins. She’s been in Congress since 1995.
In her statement, Lee said, “My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.” She also said, “I am currently undergoing treatment to battle this disease that impacts tens of thousands of Americans every year.”
Lee’s statement continued, “I am committed to working with our Congressional Leadership including Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of House to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation that is critical for the prosperity and security of the American people.”
Lee previously battled breast cancer. In 2012, she announced that she was cancer-free after having been diagnosed the previous year. She said at the time, “I look forward to having many more years to enjoy my family, friends, and to serve our community and nation.”
Lee was born in Queens, New York, and she served as a judge before she was elected to an at-large Houston City Council seat in 1989. She has since become a household name in Houston, the largest city in Texas and the fourth most populous in the country.
Last year, Lee ran an unsuccessful campaign for mayor of Houston. She lost by a wide margin to then-state Sen. John Whitmire and then promptly announced that she would seek reelection in Congress.
Lee received an outpouring of support on social media following her evening announcement. “Some things are bigger than politics,” read a post from the Harris County GOP. “Please join us in praying for Congresswoman Jackson Lee and her loved ones during this difficult time, as we wish her a speedy recovery.”
Houston Mayor John Whitmire also offered his support, saying, “Sheila Jackson Lee is a fighter, and I have no doubt she will face this challenge with the same courage and determination she has always shown. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family.”
Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and her family as she battles pancreatic cancer. She is a true champion for the people of Texas and a dedicated public servant. We stand with her in this fight and send our best wishes for a speedy recovery.”
Lee’s announcement comes at a time when pancreatic cancer awareness is growing. According to the American Cancer Society, pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, with over 49,000 people expected to die from the disease this year. The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is just 9%, making it one of the deadliest forms of cancer.
