VIDEO: Sullivan to have cancer surgery

9 months ago

Senator says he had a similar incident four years ago

State Senator John Sullivan says he has a form of cancer known as liposarcoma and will have surgery this week to have it removed.

Sullivan said the cancer was discovered about six months ago, but the surgery will be this week at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore. Sullivan says his local doctor recommended that hospital and he has a sister-in-law who is an oncology nurse at Johns Hopkins.

State Senator John Sullivan (D – Rushville) issued the following statement:

“It’s been a very busy summer—I’ve been all over Western Illinois, walking in parades, knocking on doors and doing all I can to stay atop the issues and represent and help the great people of this region. However, I am going to need to temporarily step away for a short time to take care of a health issue.
 
Four years ago, I had a small growth removed from my lower abdomen through an outpatient procedure. Since then, I’ve been getting regular check-ups. Recently, my doctor observed a local recurrence. They have advised me that the best treatment is to have it removed in its entirety.
 
This is a rare but extremely treatable form of cancer called liposarcoma.
 
I am scheduled to undergo a surgical procedure this week and will be away from my full-time duties for two to three weeks.
 
Obviously this is a very personal issue. However, I’ve worked hard throughout my tenure in office to be upfront with my constituents, and in that spirit wanted the public to know about this situation.
 
In my brief absence, my legislative staff—Joan Hester in Quincy, Sheila Miller in Macomb, and Jan Hohl in Springfield—will continue to provide the excellent service they are known for. I’ve also spoken with Representatives Jil Tracy & Norine Hammond, and in the event of urgent legislative business, they’ve offered their assistance.
 
My doctors and I are confident I will make a full recovery and return to my duties full time in early September.”

Sullivan's opponent in the November election, Republican Randy Frese, issue the following statement:

“My family and I are praying for John and his family as they deal with this difficult time,” Frese said.  “I wish him a complete and speedy recovery. I look forward to news that his treatment was completely successful and his return to work.”

From the Quincy Tea Party:  

On behalf of its members, the Board of Directors of Quincy Tea Party would like to express our concern and wishes for a quick recovery for Senator John Sullivan as he battles his illness, announced today.  We wish him and his family the best, and will be praying for a positive outcome to this challenge.  We look forward to seeing Senator Sullivan back out and on the campaign trail, and discussing the issues important to our congressional district.