DES MOINES — Sen. Dave Rowley, R-Spirit Lake, announced Tuesday that he has been diagnosed with tonsil cancer.
Rowley said that while any cancer diagnosis is serious, he and his family are optimistic about his treatment and recovery.
“Every cancer diagnosis is serious, but after talking with my family, friends, and care team, we are all optimistic we can face this head on, and it is treatable and curable,” Rowley said.
Rowley said he will undergo treatment over the next several weeks but plans to remain as active as possible during the legislative session.
“My goal is to be in the Senate chamber as much as I can to work on the important issues we have ahead of us this legislative session,” he said. “Throughout this process, I have been working with committee chairs on legislation and keeping up with constituents through phone and email to ensure their concerns are heard.”
Rowley also thanked supporters for their understanding as he begins treatment.
“I appreciate the patience and understanding of everyone both at home and at the Capitol, and will be fighting this with everything I have,” he said.
Rowley said he expects to return to the Capitol full-time later this spring. He also confirmed he has filed paperwork to run for re-election this year.
Senate Majority Leader Mike Klimesh, R-Spillville, offered his support in a statement.
“Senator Rowley is a valued and dedicated member of our caucus, and he is in all our thoughts and prayers during this fight,” Klimesh said. “We will support him and his family in any way we can as he undergoes treatment.”