Congressman John Garamendi reveals cancer diagnosis
The lawmaker says he is receiving chemotherapy in Sacramento for a treatable form of blood cancer, and will limit public appearances over the next few months.
(File photo by Matthew Keys/Solano NewsNet)
Congressman John Garamendi says he is undergoing treatment in Sacramento for a treatable form of blood cancer.
The diagnosis was revealed in a statement to supporters on Monday, in which Garamendi reaffirmed his support for preventative health screenings. The lawmaker’s wife, Patricia Garamendi, is a participant in the Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program, which was announced in May.
“Today, I started my path to remission with chemo-immunotherapy as an outpatient at Kaiser Oncology in Sacramento,” Garamendi said on Monday. “With early detection, excellent doctors, and the love and support of Patti, our entire family, my extraordinary staff, and congressional colleagues, I know I'll get through this while continuing to serve my constituents and advance American democracy.”
Garamendi said he expects his treatment to last “a few months,” during which he will “continue working on my long list of projects and goals for my constituents in Contra Costa and Solano counties.” Garamendi represents California’s 8th Congressional District, which covers all of Solano County except the communities of Vacaville, Dixon and rural areas nearby.
Garamendi warned that, “alongside destroying cancer cells, chemotherapy weakens natural antibodies and the immune system,” which means he will limit his travel between Washington and California, and limit public appearances during the process.
“My thoughts and support are with families managing cancer or any health condition, and with the doctors, nurses, and medical personnel who offer comfort and hope,” Garamendi said. “I am confident that the treatments will be effective, allowing me to continue serving impacted families and my constituents in Congress for years to come.”
The lawmaker applauded President Biden for initiating the “Cancer Moonshot” initiative, and said he appreciated “California's efforts in stem cell research and taxing cigarettes in the 1980s for cancer research,” which he said "advanced therapies benefitting not only me, but every family dealing with cancer.”