Governor Bill Lee’s wife has been battling lymphoma since August. Her health situation was updated to the public on Thursday.
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, although it can also impact other organs, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The Governor’s wife underwent surgery shortly after her diagnosis and has kept a low profile during her husband’s recent re-election campaign and other holiday events.
In a statement, Governor Lee expressed gratitude for their support and prayers and shared that his wife’s prognosis is good and the condition is treatable.
He stated that she would be entering the next phase of treatment later this month, which will involve a bone marrow transplant.
Governor Lee and his wife expressed their trust in the Lord and their hope for peace and comfort for all those facing challenges in their own lives.
Maria Lee has a background in education and has previously talked about being raised by parents who fostered infants and cared for elderly neighbors through their church.
She became a teacher and eventually taught Governor Lee’s son, eventually leading to their relationship and marriage. Governor Lee’s first wife died in a horse riding accident in 2000.