Premier John Horgan speaking in the BC Legislature on Oct. 7, 2021. (Photo via BC Government)
Premier John Horgan says he will be undergoing surgery Friday morning to remove a lump in his neck.
In a statement, he says he noticed a lump in his neck and had a number of tests done over the past few weeks to determine if it is cancerous.
“Those tests have revealed a growth in my throat that requires surgery tomorrow,” Horgan said. “Any further treatment will be determined after the surgery.”
Horgan intends to continue in his role as Premier though he has appointed Mike Farnworth as Deputy Premier should he need assistance.
“We have a lot of work to do to support British Columbians through this pandemic and beyond, and I’m proud of the dedication shown by our cabinet and caucus to that work,” he added.
“Mike will be there as support, if needed, but I will continue in all my roles as Premier, head of the executive council, the current chair of the Council of the Federation.”
The 62-year-old Horgan was diagnosed with bladder cancer back in 2008, though he was later declared cancer-free after surgery and treatment. In his statement, he urged people who have medical questions or concerns to go and get it checked out.
“I have been here before and I am not alone. People all around the province receive news like this every day,” he added.
“My message to all British Columbians is, please don’t wait. If you are concerned about something, don’t put it off. Go see a doctor, go to an urgent and primary care centre to get it checked out as soon as you can.”
In a statement, Interim BC Liberal Leader Shirley Bond said the news come as a shock to her and her colleagues.
“I have known John Horgan for nearly two decades. We have both served British Columbians here in the Legislature for a very long time,” she said. “These are the times to set aside politics and focus on the personal. This is about people who care about one another, because nothing is more important than health and family.”
“I look forward to the day when a completely health Premier Horgan returns to the Legislature. I know that the debate at that time will be as vigorous as ever.”
I’ve been here before and I’m not alone. People across BC receive news like this every day.
My message to all British Columbians: if you’re concerned about something, don’t put it off. Please get it checked as soon as you can. pic.twitter.com/PBUdqBBfUE
— John Horgan (@jjhorgan) October 28, 2021
