State Rep. Jack Peterman diagnosed with cancer

A local State Representative has announced that he has been diagnosed with cancer.

On Wednesday, State Rep. Jack Peterman, R-Milford, released that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Rep. Peterman has undergone multiple surgeries on his spine over the last two years to correct pinched nerves and relieve impaired motor function.

Rep. Peterman said he recently underwent a prostatectomy to remove the malignancy and is currently recovering. “I’m disappointed by this latest obstacle to returning to full health, but I am not letting it stop me,” Rep. Peterman said. “I am working with my doctors and following their advice to make this recovery as short as possible. Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend the General Assembly during this period, but I plan to return as soon as is possible.”

At this time, a timetable has not been set, as doctors apparently continue to assess the situation and monitor the success of their efforts.

Rep. Peterman said his staff and his legislative colleagues will be working to ensure the needs of the 33rd Representative District, which includes Magnolia, Bowers Beach, Frederica, Houston, and the northern portion of Milford, are met. Rep. Peterman said he is staying very optimistic, noting Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, who was was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma last June, and following an aggressive treatment regimen was declared with no sign of the cancer, in November.

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men, trailing only skin cancer. It is apparently often successfully treated, with more 2 million American men reported as prostate cancer survivors.

State House Minority Leader Danny Short, R-Seaford, said he and the other 14 members of the House Republican Caucus are supportive of Rep. Peterman and are wishing for his quick return to the legislature.