Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly announces cancer diagnosis 2 days after winning re-election

Rep. Gerald "Gerry" Connolly, D-Va., announced 2 days aft winning re-election that helium has esophageal cancer.

In an "open missive to constituents," Connolly called the diagnosis helium learned astir "a fewer days ago" a "surprise," adding that speech from "some intermittent abdominal aches and pains," helium had nary symptoms. 

The person said helium would statesman chemotherapy and immunotherapy close away.

"I volition onslaught this the lone mode I cognize however – with Irish combat and humor," helium said, adding that helium "may beryllium a spot fatigued owed to the treatment" portion helium does his occupation successful his territory and connected Capitol Hill. 

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Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., questions U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle arsenic she testifies earlier the House Oversight and Accountability Committee astir the attempted assassination of erstwhile President Donald Trump astatine a run lawsuit successful Pennsylvania, connected Capitol Hill, Monday, July 22, 2024, successful Washington, D.C. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

Connolly is presently serving his eighth word successful the U.S. House of Representatives from Virginia's 11th District, according to his online biography. His territory is centered successful Fairfax County and includes the affluent suburbs extracurricular the nation's capital.

The 74-year-old won his ninth House word by defeating Republican Mike Van Meter, a Navy seasoned and erstwhile FBI agent. 

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Rep. Gerry Connolly represents Virginia's 11th District. (connolly.house.gov)

Connolly has been a fixture successful bluish Virginia politics for astir 30 years. He was archetypal elected arsenic a Fairfax County supervisor successful 1995. In Congress, helium has played a starring relation successful oversight investigations.

While the Senate is present controlled by Republicans, the House is present tightly divided portion the hold continues for much predetermination results. 

Connolly gestures during a House Oversight and Reform Committee proceeding connected "Legislative Proposals to Put the U.S. Postal Service connected Sustainable Financial Footing" connected Capitol Hill successful Washington, D.C., connected Feb. 24, 2021.  (Graeme Jennings/Pool via REUTERS)

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"Be assured I’m afloat of anticipation and americium sustained by the love, support, and encouragement of my family, friends, and of each of you," Connolly said successful the letter. "My fantastic unit and I look guardant to serving you each successful this caller word and successful the future. It is simply a privilege to correspond and service each and each 1 of you. See you connected the hustings."

Fox News' Chad Pergram and The Associated Press contributed to this report.