Rep. Jim Hagedorn says his kidney cancer is back

MANKATO, Minn. (WKBT) — U.S. Rep. Jim Hagedorn, who represents Minnesota’s first district, including Houston County, announced Wednesday that his kidney cancer has come back.

The Republican was diagnosed with stage IV kidney cancer in 2019 and treated at Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

“Over the weekend, recent tests conducted at the Mayo Clinic revealed a reoccurrence of my kidney cancer. The new diagnosis was surprising considering that just 14 weeks ago no cancer was detected. But, as every cancer survivor knows, you fight the disease each and every day. Even the best of recoveries present unexpected challenges like I am facing,” Hagedorn said.

After his diagnoses, Hagedorn was able to maintain an active schedule in Congress and campaign for re-election. He was elected for his second term in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2020.

“I remain upbeat and view the future as bright. Jesus Christ is watching over me. I am fortunate to be receiving medical care from the world’s finest professionals at the Mayo Clinic. My doctors and I are very encouraged by a promising new FDA-approved cure that is available to attack this type of cancer,” he said.

Hagedorn added that he was grateful for the support of his wife, Jennifer Carnahan, as well as his family, friends, colleagues, staff and constituents.

“The earliest possible detection and treatment of cancer and other serious illnesses provides the best chance to defeat the disease and live the longest and best life possible. I encourage anyone who has missed annual medical exams and cancer screenings to please make an appointment today. It could save your life,” he said.

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