Member of Parliament for St. John’s East, Jack Harris, announced Thursday that he has been diagnosed with cancer.
In a written statement, Harris says he began treatment this week after a cancerous lump was found in his neck.
“I am fortunate that it was detected and diagnosed early,” the statement reads, “and the prognosis is good.”
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Harris goes on to say he is following the advice of doctors and has “every confidence in the treatment plan,” while announcing that this means he’ll be avoiding public appearances and community events for a while.
In a time when COVID-19 concerns mean many events are being cancelled regardless, Harris says he’ll also be working from home “to avoid infection.”
To date, Newfoundland and Labrador currently 3 presumptive cases of COVID-19.
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Harris says that, despite his diagnosis and physical absence, he remains on hand to help constituents through the pandemic.
“Please be assured that I have a positive outlook with respect to my personal circumstances,” he says, “and a profound sympathy for all those undergoing health challenges far more serious than my own.”