Michigan Congressman Dan Kildee, D-Flint, announced on Friday that he’s been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, a common form of cancer.
In a video statement, Kildee said a small tumor was discovered on one of his tonsils after completing a preventive scan of a swollen lymph node.
Kildee plans to undergo surgery in a few weeks to have the tumor removed.
"We're very fortunate that we caught this early. The doctors say that my prognosis is excellent," said Kildee during his video statement. "But I didn't want you to know about it because it's going to mean that I'll be off for a couple of weeks while I get myself healthy."
Kildee emphasized that he’s going to beat cancer and thankful for the love from his family and support from congressional colleagues and constituents of Michigan’s eighth district.
"Dan and I have long worked together and I know he will win his fight against cancer," said Congressman John Moolenaar, R-Caledonia, in a written statement. "My family and I are praying for Dan and his family as he goes through treatment and faces this challenge."
Both of Kildee’s offices in Washington D.C. and Flint will remain open while he’s recovering from surgery.
“It’s never easy to hear the words you have cancer. But I know that so many other families have gone through a cancer diagnosis," said Kildee. "I'm anxious to get back to work, but for now, I have to take care of my health. And I really appreciate all your support as I go through this."