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Rice Announces She Has Breast Cancer

Darden Rice | St. Petersburg City Council | Politics

The chair of the St. Petersburg City Council says she expects to recover and plans to run for reelection.

ST. PETERSBURG – Darden Rice, chair of the St. Petersburg City Council, has breast cancer.

Rice made the announcement this morning (Jan. 30):

“I’ve always championed transparency and have been straightforward with my friends, family, colleagues, and constituents. You have placed your trust in me – for that reason I am disclosing a deeply personal issue in my life: I have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

“I am fortunate to have a very strong outlook. My doctors and I are confident in my treatment plan. I expect to fully recover and be back at work shortly.

“While cancer is news no one wants to hear, I am thankful for my excellent doctors, the high quality treatment options in our region, and insurance coverage that allays many financial concerns.  I am especially thankful for all those close to me who are a constant source of support and encouragement.

“I would be remiss if I did not shout from the rooftop: Early detection saves lives. I encourage women to take annual breast cancer screening seriously. It will save your life.

“I have committed my life to public service. I love my work. I love my city. I will be announcing my campaign for re-election in two weeks. I ask for a brief period of privacy while my family and I make our own adjustments to this diagnosis.

“I campaigned three years ago on a platform of ‘St. Pete Strong’: strong city services, strong city economic development, strong neighborhoods. Three years later our city is stronger than ever.

And I am, too.”

For information about Darden Rice, go to facebook.com.

Darden Rice | St. Petersburg City Council | Breast Cancer | TB Reporter

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