Longtime Chicago Ald. Ed Burke (14th) confirmed he will undergo prostate cancer surgery on Thursday.
In a statement read to the media Tuesday morning, Burke said he discovered at a recent, routine physical that his PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels were elevated. After further tests, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
He opted for surgical treatment, he said, and expects a full recovery.
"With faith in God and trust in my doctors, I’m confident of a full recovery," Burke said. "After a period of recuperation I expect to be able to return to a normal schedule. My family and I are grateful for the many messages of support and prayer from friends and well-wishers."
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, which first reported Burke's diagnosis, the alderman chose to have the surgery Thursday in order to not miss Wednesday's City Council meeting, which he has never done.
Burke has been alderman for 45 years.
"My experience is an example of why men should receive PSA testing," he said, adding, "I trust that you will respect my privacy as I deal with this health issue."
