Congressman and longtime California politician John Garamendi mentioned Monday that he has been recognized with a uncommon type of blood most cancers known as a number of myeloma.
In a press release and a video posted on the social media platform X on Monday afternoon, Garamendi (D-Walnut Grove), 79, mentioned medical doctors discovered the most cancers early. He recalled his physician calling him to say: “When will you be again in California? It is advisable to are available in for a sequence of exams.”
A number of myeloma weakens the immune system and makes some vaccines much less efficient. The most cancers assaults plasma cells, limiting their skill to provide the antibodies that the human physique must battle off infections.
Garamendi mentioned he plans to proceed to working whereas receiving outpatient remedy at Kaiser Permanente in Sacramento. He mentioned he’s receiving chemoimmunotherapy, a remedy that mixes chemotherapy with immunotherapy, which boosts the physique’s immune system.
Garamendi mentioned his physician cautioned him to scale back pointless publicity to viruses, together with COVID-19 and the flu, whereas his immune system is weakened. His workplace mentioned he plans to restrict journey to Washington and public occasions.
“My love and solidarity exit to all different households managing most cancers and all different well being situations, and to the medical doctors and nurses and medical personnel who present us with consolation and hope,” Garamendi mentioned.
Garamendi was California’s lieutenant governor underneath Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger from 2007 to 2009. He was the state’s first elected insurance coverage commissioner within the Nineteen Nineties, and served within the state Legislature from 1974 to 1990, the place he was a vocal advocate for common healthcare.
