Rep. Gerry Connolly announces cancer diagnosis

FAIRFAX, Va. — Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly has been diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus. He sent WUSA9 the text of his announcement on Thursday, vowing to fight hard. 

Connolly said the diagnosis came as a surprise because he had no symptoms. According to the National Cancer Institute, many diagnosed with esophageal cancer don't experience symptoms until the tumor grows in size.

On Thursday Connolly said he is confident that with a team of medical professionals the outcome of the diagnosis will be successful. He said he plans to continue working.

"Over the next few months as I do my job here in our district and on the Hill, I may be a bit fatigued due to the treatment. I hope you'll understand. Be assured I'm full of hope and am sustained by the love, support, and encouragement of my family, friends, and of all of you," Connolly said. 

Connolly is serving his eighth term in the U.S. House of Representatives from Virginia’s 11th District, which includes Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax in Northern Virginia. He plans to undergo chemotherapy and immunotherapy right away.

"Cancer can be tough. But so am I. I will attack this the only way I know how - with Irish fight and humor," Connolly said. 

According to the National Cancer Institute, esophageal cancer is a rare type of cancer, making up about 1% of cancer cases in the United States. The rate of new cases per year is about four for every 100,000 people. In other parts of the world, esophageal cancer is more common. In the United States, esophageal adenocarcinoma is more common than esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and makes up about 80% of esophageal cancer cases.

>> Read Connolly's full statement is below:

A few days ago, I learned I joined the ranks of millions of Americans. I have cancer of the esophagus. It was a surprise because, except for some intermittent abdominal aches and pains, I had no symptoms. I'm going to undergo chemotherapy and immunotherapy right away. Cancer can be tough. But so am I. I will attack this the only way I know how - with Irish fight and humor.

With a great team of doctors, nurses, and medical technicians, we are very confident in a successful outcome. Over the next few months as I do my job here in our district and on the Hill, I may be a bit fatigued due to the treatment. I hope you'll understand. Be assured I'm full of hope and am sustained by the love, support, and encouragement of my family, friends, and of all of you. My wonderful staff and I look forward to serving you all in this new term and in the future. It is a privilege to represent and serve each and every one of you. See you on the hustings.

Your friend and public servant,

Gerry Connolly