B.C. Premier John Horgan diagnosed with cancer

B.C. Premier John Horgan has announced the lump he discovered in his throat a few months ago is cancer.

Horgan underwent surgery and a biopsy last Friday. In a statement Thursday, he says the pathology confirmed the growth in his throat is cancerous.

“My prognosis is good and I expect to make a full recovery,” Horgan said.

Thank you again for the well wishes. Your support gives me strength and humbles me.

I look forward to being back in the legislature and travelling in the new year, as we continue building a stronger BC for everyone. pic.twitter.com/Ze37u6j7yz

— John Horgan (@jjhorgan) November 4, 2021

He is set to begin radiation treatment in the coming weeks, during which time he says he will participate in meetings and briefings virtually.

Minister Mike Farnworth, who was appointed deputy premier last week, will attend any in-person commitments, while other cabinet ministers may also attend in his absence.

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“I would, again, like to thank everyone who sent their well wishes,” Horgan wrote.

“I am grateful to the amazing health-care team for all the support I’ve received,” his statement added.

Horgan says he looks forward to “being back in the legislature and travelling in the new year.”

It's news no one wants to hear @mikefarnworthbc says of cancer diagnosis Premier @jjhorgan shared today. He's going through treatment – eager to get back here as soon as possible as are all of us, Farnworth says and Horgan did attend caucus virtually.#bcpoli @CityNewsVAN

— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) November 4, 2021

The premier announced on Oct. 28 he had been “in and out of hospital” over several weeks after discovering the growth in his neck.

“That type of information just doesn’t stay quiet. I think transparency is really important in these situations,” he said, referring to his home area of Langford as a small, tight knit community.

This is not Horgan’s first battle with cancer. In 2008, the now-62-year-old discovered he had bladder cancer after a routine checkup.

Horgan lost his brother to cancer in 2018.