Rep. Connolly announces cancer diagnosis
Rep. Gerry Connolly (D) announced to his constituents on Nov. 7 that he has cancer.
“A few days ago, I learned I joined the ranks of millions of Americans,” Connolly wrote on Facebook and X. “I have cancer of the esophagus. It was a surprise because, except for some intermittent abdominal aches and pains, I had no symptoms.”
Connolly has represented Northern Virginia in Congress since 2009. He was re-elected on Nov. 5 with over 66 percent of the vote.
He plans to start chemotherapy and immunotherapy right away. “Cancer can be tough. But so am I. I will attack this the only way I know how – with Irish fight and humor.”
“With a great team of doctors, nurses, and medical technicians, we are very confident in a successful outcome,” Connolly wrote. “Over the next few months as I do my job here in our district and on the Hill, I may be a bit fatigued due to the treatment. I hope you’ll understand. Be assured I’m full of hope and am sustained by the love, support, and encouragement of my family, friends, and of all of you.”
Connolly represents the 11th District in Congress, which includes western Annandale, Burke, Reston, Chantilly, and Newington Forest. He represented a larger portion of the Annandale/Mason District area before a redistricting map was approved for Virginia in 2021.
Connolly chaired the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors from 2003 to 2009. He represented the Providence District on the BoS from 1995 to 2003.
In Congress, Connolly serves on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, is a senior member of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability and is the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation.
This is a serious, but treatable diagnosis. I hope his cancer was caught early and wish him a complete recovery and longevity.
Gerry this news is sad but you play the long game and beat this. Much love and respect to a leader and fellow Virginian.
Wishing you a cancer-free outcome, and comfort while you undergo treatment, Representative Connolly!
Prayers are with you!
Prayers are with you! I know with your strength you will beat this.
My best wishes, Rep. Connolly. Here’s to your good health!
Praying for a complete recovery.
God Bless.
Hope you make a full recovery and the treatment is bearable. I have loved watching you comment on MSNBC over the years and appreciate your candor, knowledge and spirit. Best wishes for a full and speedy recovery! Looking forward to seeing you back on television giving it to us straight! 🙏🏻❤️
Praying your treatment goes as smoothly as possible and that you are “dancing with NED” (no evidence of disease) very soon! Bless you, Rep. Connolly!
Saying prayer for complete recovery Rep. Connolly!
God Bless you Gerry Connelly! I am 80 years old, Living and Loving Life, and 5 Years Cancer Free! Wishing, and Hoping, and Praying for your Continued Positive Treatment, and Recovery! Your Tough, You Will Survive! Sandy, from Scottsdale Arizona❤️🙏❤️🇱🇷
Speedy recovery
Sad news indeed but you are strong! Fight the good fight and take care of yourself!
I don’t see Prayer here.
Our Heavenly Father who granted us life. He healed my grandmother of cancer. Humble yourself and call on Him. Ask Him to save your soul. Trust in Him. 🙏
I’m sorry for your diagnosis. I was treated 21 years ago at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. My cancer was stage 4B of the right tonsil. Treatment is much better today. Be strong and you will have better days ahead. You are in our prayers.
You are in my Thoughts and Prayers. 🙏
Praying for you for a complete healing recovery.
Good luck to a great Democrat.
Prayers lifted up for you
I pray that after your treatments you will be cancer free! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
My husband had this 9 yrs ago. It was treated with 6 wks of chemo and radiation. No surgery. It was gone in a few months and he’s still here. I know all cases are different, so good luck to a fellow Irishman 🍀
Praying for total healing and recovery for you. Our Heavenly FATHER continues to be a healing GOD. HE never leaves us or forsakes us. The Word says “ All things are possible if we only believe.” There is nothing too hard for GOD. Trust HIM to carry you through this. This is a spiritual battle. Fight it with the whole armor of GOD on. Take care.