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Hirono discloses kidney cancer

Surgery is today to remove kidney, lesion on rib; prognosis good

Mazie Hirono

The Associated Press and The Maui News

WASHINGTON — Hawaii Sen. Mazie Hirono is undergoing treatment for kidney cancer and says she has a favorable prognosis from her doctor in Washington.

She will undergo surgery to remove a kidney today, a spokesman said.

The first-term Democrat promises to fight the disease “with the same determination I’ve fought for the people of Hawaii.” And in a separate email, Hirono said she will seek another term.

“And here’s what I also want you to know: I am, without question, running for re-election in 2018. The stakes are too high and our shared values are under attack like never before,” she said.

Hirono expects to have her right kidney removed as well as a lesion on one of her ribs. Hirono says her doctor expects her “to make a full recovery from these treatments.”

She served as Hawaii’s lieutenant governor from 1994-2002 and was a member of the House from 2006-12 when she was elected to the Senate.

Hirono says she will continue to work during her treatment. She cast a vote in the Senate late Tuesday as lawmakers considered a transportation nominee.

Words of support and prayer from Hawaii lawmakers poured in.

“I join all of Hawaii in wishing Senator Hirono a rapid recovery,” said Hawaii’s other senator, Brian Schatz. “Mazie’s courage and fortitude are matched only by her love for our state and people.”

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, whose district includes Maui County, said that she spoke with Hirono on Tuesday.

“She was upbeat and fearless as she takes on this fight,” Gabbard said. “I look forward to seeing Mazie back at the Capitol soon to continue our work together on behalf of the people of Hawaii.”

“Mazie is a fighter, and I know that she brings that spirit to this latest challenge,” said Gov. David Ige. “Dawn and I pray for Senator Hirono’s full recovery and we send our best wishes to her and her family.”

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