U.S. Rep. Alcee Hastings, D-Fla., the vice chairman of the U.S. House Rules Committee and currently the dean of the Florida congressional delegation, announced on Monday that he is undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer.
Hastings said on Monday that he was getting treatment at the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center.
“I was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and in the midst of this traumatizing news, I found myself wondering not only if I would survive this disease, but also if it would impact my ability to perform my duties,” Hastings said. “Now that I have begun treatment, I feel hopeful about survival and about my ability to continue serving my constituents of Florida’s 20th Congressional District and the nation.
“My doctors have stated that the advancement in the treatment of cancer is evolutionary and the success rates continue to climb resulting in a dramatic decrease in the number of cancer-related deaths,” Hastings added. “I have been convinced that this is a battle worth fighting, and my life is defined by fighting battles worth fighting. Should it become clear that this cancer which has invaded my body cannot be defeated, I will tell you so.
“I release this statement, because I want to be the source providing you with this information. I ask for your prayers at this time,” Hastings said in conclusion.
First elected to Congress in 1992, Hastings represents a solidly Democratic district.
Kevin Derby can be reached at Kevin.Derby@floridadaily.com.
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