Jack Layton diagnosed with prostate cancer
Posted February 5, 2010 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
TORONTO (NEWS1130) – Jack Layton says he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer but will stay on as leader of the federal NDP while he undergoes treatment.
The 59-year-old says he intends to battle the disease and win, just as his father did 17 years ago. “I intend to bring to this battle the same sense of determination and optimism that he did. I’ll have his genes on my side as well. Like my Dad I’m a fighter and I’m going to beat this.”
Layton adds his treatment plan is underway and he’s feeling good and joked it would give him more time to watch the Winter Olympics.
He says he won’t let the cancer stop him from working. “I want to ensure my constituents know that I will be carrying on as Member of Parliament for Toronto-Danforth and as leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada.”
Layton has had recent back pain problems, which can be a symptom of prostate cancer and just celebrated his seventh anniversary as leader.
