BC Premier John Horgan diagnosed with cancer to begin radiation treatment

B.C. Premier John Horgan said Thursday he has been diagnosed with cancer after a biopsy for a growth on his throat late last week.

In a statement, he said pathology reports confirmed the growth was cancerous. 

"My prognosis is good and I expect to make a full recovery," wrote Horgan, 62.

The premier said he will begin radiation treatment in the next several weeks until it finishes toward the end of December. 

He said he still plans to participate in cabinet meetings and fulfil his other duties virtually. Deputy Premier Mike Farnworth and other cabinet ministers will be able attend in-person events in his place. 

"I would, again, like to thank everyone who sent their 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," Horgan said.

The premier spoke on Oct. 28 about discovering the lump on his throat several months earlier. He said he'd been in and out of hospital for testing, which confirmed the need for the biopsy last Friday.

Horgan was previously diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2008, when he was in his 40s. He was declared cancer-free after surgery and treatment.

"It's important, I think, for people to understand that this isn't the first time I've experienced a health issue like this, and it's the extraordinary efforts of our public health-care system that gives me complete confidence that all will be well for me," he said during last week's news conference.

WATCH | Horgan spoke last week ahead of his biopsy surgery

John Horgan getting surgery for lump on throat7 days agoB.C.’s premier won’t be stepping away from his duties, but has appointed Minister Mike Farnworth as deputy premier in case he needs assistance. 1:12

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