Gov. Kay Ivey Announces She Will Undergo Radiation Treatment

MONTGOMERY, AL — Gov. Kay Ivey announced Thursday she will undergo treatment for a a malignant spot on her lungs. Ivey is expected to be admitted to UAB Hospital Friday morning for an outpatient procedure that will begin a series of radiation treatments.

"Within the past few weeks, during a routine exam, my longtime family physician discovered a spot on my lung that was unusual. Additional tests confirmed that this was, indeed, a tiny, isolated malignancy," Ivey said. "The good news is I am one of the fortunate ones where this was discovered early, and it is very treatable."

Ivey said she does not believe the treatment will impair her ability to serve as governor. "None of this will prevent me from continuing to serve as your governor and doing the work you elected me to do," she said. "Naturally, I welcome your prayers and your support. Just as so many others who have been affected by cancer, I am confident of God’s plan and purpose for my life and feel extremely fortunate this was caught so early."

Ivey's full statement can be seen here:

"Governor Kay Ivey was referred to me to review an abnormal spot on her lung. A biopsy was performed and pathology results revealed a small, isolated malignancy," said Dr. William P. Saliski, Jr., D.O., of the Montgomery Pulmonary Consultants. "Upon consultation with our cancer team and reviewing all options available, Governor Ivey determined that these minimal radiation treatments are her preference. Governor Ivey has opted for the least invasive treatment which has an excellent cure rate. I expect her to make a full recovery."