By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO. – Secretary of State Robin Carnahan announced Monday she has breast cancer.
Carnahan issued a statement saying she was recently diagnosed and is talking with doctors and family members to develop a treatment plan.
"I feel very lucky," she said in the statement. "Because we caught this at an early stage, doctors expect that after treatments I will have a full recovery."
Carnahan says she plans to continue working, as much as she can, while she undergoes treatment. She also made a plea for people to schedule a mammogram or do a self-exam for breast cancer.
Secretary Carnahan's statement:
Recently, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My family and I are now in the process of talking with doctors and developing a treatment plan. I feel very lucky. Because we caught this at an early stage, doctors expect that after treatments I will have a full recovery.
The doctors have a job to do to and so do I. Over 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year and it will affect nearly one in seven women in America during their lifetime.
Right now, like so many other women, I am determined to fight this disease and win. I know that I am not alone in this fight. Faith in a loving God, support from my family and many friends and the skill of my medical team are all on my side.
I intend to continue working during the course of the treatments, as much as my doctors and common sense will allow. Along with my terrific team in the Secretary of State's office, we'll continue providing great service to the people of Missouri.
As Secretary of State, I often ask people to do their civic duty and go vote. But today I have something else to ask. Please make time for your recommended breast cancer screening. Make an appointment for a mammogram or do a self-exam today. Because, as I have found out, early detection makes all the difference.