Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing Texas' 18th Congressional District, announced Sunday night that she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

“My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. I am currently undergoing treatment to battle this disease that impacts tens of thousands of Americans every year,” she said in a statement. “I am confident that my doctors have developed the best possible plan to target my specific disease. The road ahead will not be easy, but I stand in faith that God will strengthen me.”

The 15-term congresswoman, who ran unsuccessfully for Houston mayor last year, faced a primary challenge from a former congressional intern earlier this year in the strongly Democratic 18th Congressional District. She won with 60% of the vote.

At 74 years old, Jackson Lee stated that her treatment might cause her to be "occasionally absent from Congress," but she plans to work with Congressional leadership "to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation that is critical for the prosperity and security of the American people."

“By God’s grace, I will be back at full strength soon,” she added.