Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, has died at age 74. Lee, a Democrat from Texas, died on Friday in Houston. She revealed her terminal illness in a statement in June.
RELATED: Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee diagnosed with pancreatic cancer
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Lee wrote:
“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.”
At the time, Lee said she planned to continue serving her constituents while undergoing treatment. “By God’s grace, I will be back at full strength soon,” she said.
Lee, pictured with President Biden, continued: “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.
“Please keep me and my family in your prayers as you have always done. Know that you will remain in mine.”
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer begins in pancreatic cells that divide and multiply out of control. Pancreatic cancer is almost always a terminal illness, meaning it can’t be cured or treated. The survival rate is very low.
The pancreas is part of the body’s digestive system. It sits behind the stomach and secretes enzymes to break down food in the small intestine.
The pancreas also secretes insulin to help regulate blood sugar.
Signs and Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer:
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer depend on the location (head or tail of the pancreas). There are usually no symptoms until the cancer spreads.
Make an appointment with a health care professional if you have symptoms.
