Rep. John Lewis Is Fighting Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer

Congressman John Lewis

Rep. John Lewis Is Fighting Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer

Civil rights legend, Rep. John Lewis of Georgia’s 5th Congressional District, fought alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. for many years for the rights of African Americans during the segregation era – but is gearing up for the fight of his life this year. It was announced yesterday (12/29/19) that Rep. John Lewis was recently diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer. In a statement to the public, he revealed that he plans to undergo treatment and continue to serve the people:

The 79-year-old congressman is hopeful about his upcoming treatments:

“I have been in some kind of fight – for freedom, equality, basic human rights – for nearly my entire life. I have never faced a fight quite like the one I have now. This month in a routine medical visit, and subsequent tests, doctors discovered Stage IV pancreatic cancer. This diagnosis has been reconfirmed. While I am clear-eyed about the prognosis, doctors have told me that recent medical advances have made this type of cancer treatable in many cases, that treatment options are no longer as debilitating as they once were, and that I have a fighting chance.”

Rep. John Lewis with Diddy

Rep. John Lewis says that he will continue in his role, but acknowledges he may lose congressional votes:

“So I have decided to do what I know to do and do what I have always done: I am going to fight it and keep fighting for the Beloved Community. We still have many bridges to cross. To my constituents: being your representative in Congress is the honor of a lifetime. I will return to Washington in coming days to continue our work and begin my treatment plan, which will occur over the next several weeks. I may miss a few votes during this period, but with God’s grace I will be back on the front lines soon.”

He ended his statement with this request:

“Please keep me in your prayers as I begin this journey.”

We are doing just that, Rep. Lewis.

Written by Miata Shanay