Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) has been one of America’s strongest and most principled defenders of democracy and the Constitution, and he showed the same integrity in announcing his cancer diagnosis.
In a statement to his constituents, Rep. Ruskin said:
After several days of tests, I was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, a serious but curable cancer. I am about to start a chemoimmunotherapy course on an outpatient basis at Med Star Georgetown University Hospital and Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. For most people in my condition, the prognosis is excellent after four months of treatment.
I hope to get through this period, but my doctor is admonishing me to limit unnecessary exposure to avoid COVID-19, flu, and other viruses. In addition to destroying cancer cells, chemotherapy can damage natural antibodies and damage the body’s immune system. I’ve been told it can also cause hair loss and weight gain (although I’m still hopeful about the type that causes hair loss and weight loss).
Thanks to the early detection and wonderful doctors, the help of my amazing staff, the love of Sarah and our daughter and son-in-law (present and future) and family and friends, and the support of my dear constituents and me in the House My colleagues, I plan to get through this while making progress for American democracy every day in Congress.
My love and solidarity go out to the other families who are dealing with cancer or any other health condition this holiday season – and to all the doctors, nurses and medical staff who offer us comfort and hope.
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The good news is that Rep. Raskin’s cancer was caught early and his prognosis is good. Ruskin will lead President Biden’s Democratic defense against the numerous investigations expected to open after House Republicans take control of the chamber.
Ruskin is a constitutional expert who rose to prominence during Trump’s impeachment and 1/6 committee investigations.
He was integral to the fight to protect American democracy, and the integrity he displayed in defense of his country was reflected in his statement announcing his cancer diagnosis.
We wish Jamie Raskin a speedy recovery.
Jason is the managing editor. He is also a congressional correspondent for the White House Press Fellowship and PoliticusUSA. Jason has a BA in Political Science. His graduate work focused on public policy, specializing in social reform movements.
Awards and Professional Memberships
Member of the Association of Professional Journalists and the American Political Science Association
