Winnipeg MP Jim Carr, who served as minister of international trade and diversification, has been diagnosed with blood cancer.
He announced the diagnosis in a statement on Twitter Friday morning.
“After experiencing flu-like symptoms in recent weeks, my doctor requested routine blood work. I was contacted by my doctor and instructed to go to the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg late Monday evening,” the statement read.
He said he went for further tests and was diagnosed with multiple myeloma.
He is currently undergoing chemotherapy and dialysis, since the cancer has affected his kidneys.
“I am feeling well, my spirits are high,” he said in the statement.
He also said his constituency office will remain open to serve the people in the riding of Winnipeg South Centre.
Carr was re-elected MP of the riding with 45 per cent of the vote earlier this week during the federal election. He was first elected in 2015.
As trade minister he handled several high-profile issues, including responding to China’s ban on importing Canadian canola.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Carr’s fellow cabinet ministers offered messages of support on Twitter after the news was announced.
“Jim, as you take time to focus on your health, I know you’ll get through this,” reads Trudeau’s tweet.
“You’ll continue proudly serving Manitobans & Canadians. You have our full support, my friend.”
That support was echoed by both Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman and Manitoba NDP leader Wab Kinew.
“I have no doubt that he will face this challenge as he has others – with strength & determination,” said Bowman.
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