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Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) - Minnesota Congressman Jim Hagedorn underwent surgery at Mayo Clinic Monday to remove his cancerous kidney.

The Republican Congressman who represents southern Minnesota was diagnosed with advanced cancer in the organ two years ago and began receiving treatment.

His wife Jennifer Carnahan reports “the procedure was a success and Jim is resting comfortably.”

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Hagedorn prepared this statement prior to the operation:
“Jennifer and I are at the Mayo Clinic this morning for my elective kidney resection surgery. For those wondering if this is good news, it is!

“A little over 23 months ago, I was diagnosed with advanced kidney cancer. Ever since, I’ve been receiving immunotherapy at Mayo. My body’s response to the innovative treatments has been fantastic. The cancer has been beaten back, degraded, and is localized on the kidney.

“Because my condition improved so dramatically these past months and my other kidney functions just fine, doctors decided it was time to go in and remove the kidney, and by doing so, extract an estimated 99 percent of the cancer in my body.

“This doesn’t mean I can quit fighting or am cured, but to make it to this point and be able to work hard and live a full life along the way is a mini-miracle. I am extremely fortunate.

“Patients don’t fight cancer by themselves. They need lots of help. I appreciate my loving wife, Jennifer, being by my side every step of the way. I’m also grateful for my family, friends, staff, and so many others for their support, prayers, and encouragement.

“Ultimately, it’s the healing hands of God, the Mayo Clinic, and the innovative immunotherapy that are pulling me through. Special thanks to my doctors, nurses, technicians, and other professionals at Mayo for all their concern and world class quality care.

“For those dealing with serious illness, keep fighting, don’t give up! New cures are available virtually every day.

“And to those enjoying good health, please see your doctor regularly and get those annual cancer screenings. For most, early detection makes a huge difference.”

Hagedorn was elected in 2018 to represent Minnesota’s First District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He was re-elected to another term this year.

 

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