Arizona's veteran congressman, Rep. Raul Grijalva, has shared a sobering personal update with his constituents. The lawmaker, who has long represented the state's 7th Congressional District, announced on Tuesday that he is battling cancer. Revealing his diagnosis, the 76-year-old Democrat expressed resolve to confront the unexpected health challenge while maintaining his congressional responsibilities.

"After further testing and imaging, my physician discovered that I have cancer," Grijalva said in a statement quoted by FOX 10 Phoenix. He continued, "This diagnosis has been difficult to process, but I am confident in the vigorous course of treatment that my medical team has developed, and I’ve begun my journey to fight this cancer."

While the specific type of cancer that Grijalva has been diagnosed with remains undisclosed, his announcement made clear that he does not intend for the disease to impede his public service. According to AZFamily, the congressman plans to keep his office operational and maintain the usual offerings of services to his constituents during his treatment.

"My congressional office remains open and the many services we provide for our constituents continue uninterrupted. I am in regular communication with my staff," Grijalva told FOX 10 Phoenix. Ensuring his dedication to his role was not to be doubted, he added, "It is a privilege to serve as a Representative for the people of Arizona and I take this responsibility very seriously."

Grijalva, whose district includes a significant span of the Arizona-Mexico border, first entered Congress in 2002. Amidst this personal health trial, he appears to be drawing on the values that have shaped his nearly two-decade tenure in the U.S. House, emphasizing his commitment to his work and the people he represents. As the country watches one of its seasoned legislators navigate this personal adversity, Grijalva's office assures that he is engaged and focused on the path to recovery. His Southern Arizona district director, Ruben Reyes, signaled confidence that the congressman's duties would not suffer due to his medical treatment.