GOP leader Ketron diagnosed with cancer

Sen. Bill Ketron, R-Murfreesboro, speaks during a Senate session this January file photo from The Associated Press. Ketron said Thursday he is being treated for non-Hodgkins lymphoma, a type of cancer.
Sen. Bill Ketron, R-Murfreesboro, speaks during a Senate session this January file photo from The Associated Press. Ketron said Thursday he is being treated for non-Hodgkins lymphoma, a type of cancer.

NASHVILLE — State Senate Republican Caucus Chairman Bill Ketron of Murfreesboro, Tenn., announced Thursday he has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and will undergo treatment for it.

Ketron said in a news release the cancer was discovered last month after he found a small lump in his neck.

"I will be receiving chemotherapy in the coming weeks and my doctors are optimistic," he said. "While this will be a difficult journey, my faith in God and confidence in my doctors make me optimistic that there will be a good outcome."

Ketron added that "I also appreciate the prayers of others as I walk down this path."

The lawmaker said he wanted to let his constituents know "firsthand" about his condition.

"Just about everyone knows someone who has cancer or has personally experienced it," he noted. "I want to be up-front with the people in my district about the challenges I am facing and follow in the footsteps of so many brave citizens who have brought awareness to this disease."

Ketron said he doesn't expect to be away from his duties for more than a brief period during treatment, adding, "I look forward to continuing to represent the people of Rutherford County in the Senate now, and for many years to come."

Earlier this year, U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais, R-Tenn., announced he had been diagnosed with cancer in his neck. The congressman, a physician, later underwent chemotherapy and since has said his doctors tell him he is now in the clear.

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