Virginia Congressman Reveals New Esophageal Cancer Diagnosis 2 Days After Winning Reelection

Mar. 15, 2025

Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia on Oct. 22, 2020 in Fairfax, Virginia.Photo:AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin

AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin

Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly announced that he has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer, two days after winning reelection to a ninth term in the U.S. House.

Connolly, 74, shared the news about his health in a statement onXon Thursday, Nov. 7, in a post titled: “A note to my constituents.”

“Dear Friends, 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,” he wrote.

“I’m going to undergo chemotherapy and immunotherapy right away,” he continued. “Cancer can be tough. But so am I. I will attack this the only way I know how — with Irish fight and humor.”

Connolly wrote that he anticipates a “successful outcome,” asking his constituents for understanding if he shows signs of fatigue on the job during his treatment.

Rep. Gerry Connolly during a House Oversight and Accountability Committee hearing on Sept. 28, 2023.Anna Rose Layden/Bloomberg via Getty

Anna Rose Layden/Bloomberg via Getty

“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,” Connolly wrote in closing, signing the post as “Your friend and public servant.”

Connolly, a Democrat, has served the 11th Congressional District of Virginia in Congress since 2008. He handily defeated Republican Mike Van Meter to secure another term on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

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“Thank you to the voters of the 11th District of Virginia for once again putting your faith in me. Serving you is the honor of a lifetime and I will fight for our values in the next Congress,” said amessagefrom Connolly’s campaign after his election night victory.

source: people.com