11th Congressional District Rep. Gerry Connolly Shares Cancer Diagnosis

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Fairfax), who just won reelection in Virginia's 11th Congressional District, has publicly announced that he has esophageal cancer.

In a note to constituents posted on social media Thursday morning, Connolly said he learned about the cancer diagnosis a few days ago. He plans to start chemotherapy and immunotherapy immediately.

"With a great team of doctors, nurses, and medical technicians, we are very confident in a successful outcome," said Connolly. "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 said he and his staff will continue to serve constituents in the new term.

He was first elected to Congress in 2008 after serving as chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the Providence District supervisor.

The 11th congressional district includes the City of Fairfax, towns of Clifton, Herndon and Vienna, and the portions of Fairfax County that are largely west of the Capital Beltway and I-95.