THUNDER BAY — Veteran Thunder Bay politician Michael Gravelle says it's devastating to learn the cancer that he first defeated almost 10 years ago has returned.
The seven-term Liberal MPP disclosed his illness Tuesday, after learning the results of a recent biopsy.
Gravelle begins chemotherapy on Wednesday.
He said he isn't ready yet to abandon his plans to run in June's provincial election, but conceded that he may need to step aside from politics.
"What I'm hoping is that I feel much better after the first sessions of chemotherapy so I can still look at the possibility of being a candidate. It might be a long shot, to be honest," Gravelle told TBnewswatch.
He said he loves his job and has enjoyed being the MPP for Thunder Bay-Superior North for almost 27 years.
"I very much want the opportunity to carry on and represent my constituents but I'll have to make that decision in the next week or so, seeing how the chemotherapy goes."
Gravelle, 73, said Liberal leader Steven Del Duca has been completely supportive.
"I had a very good conversation with him. He's been very, very kind and obviously wants to think of nothing but my health, and recognizes this is a tough decision for me on a professional basis as well, and will support whatever decision I make."
Gravelle said he plans to continue his constituency work from his home during his treatments, with the assistance of his local staff.
"I'm going to try as much as I can to keep working. My staff are fiercely loyal....I will do my best to keep going on the job, even during these very challenging and rather scary times for me."
In a statement on Twitter, Del Duca said "Michael has my unconditional support to make what he feels is the right decision during this difficult time. I know Michael is a fighter, a strong leader, and our Liberal team will continue to hold him and his family in our thoughts."
