SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — State Rep. Bridget Kosierowski announced Tuesday that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is using her experience to encourage others to stay current with recommended health screenings.
Kosierowski, a Democrat who represents Pennsylvania’s 114th Legislative District in Lackawanna County, shared the news in a video posted to social media. She said her cancer was discovered through routine screening and emphasized the importance of early detection.
“I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer,” Kosierowski said. “I was recently diagnosed because of screening, because of early detection, and I really want to share this news with everybody because I want to remind everybody how important it is to be able to have access to that kind of care.”
Kosierowski, a registered nurse who was first elected to the state House in a 2019 special election, has frequently advocated for healthcare access and public health issues during her time in office.
While she did not disclose the stage of her cancer or details about her treatment plan, Kosierowski expressed optimism about her prognosis and noted that many breast cancers can be successfully treated when caught early.
State Rep. Bridget Kosierowski shared her breast cancer diagnosis on social media Tuesday
“Early detection of cancer means a better outcome,” she said. “We have cancers that we can treat and we can cure, and breast cancer sometimes is one of them.”
The lawmaker also sought to reassure constituents that her diagnosis will not interrupt her work representing the district.
“While I am fighting this breast cancer, I want you to know I will still be fighting for you,” Kosierowski said. “My office here in the district will be open. My office in Harrisburg is open.”
Kosierowski concluded her message by urging women and their families to prioritize routine screenings.
“Remind your girlfriends, remind your family, remind your loved ones to take that time to go get those screenings done,” she said. “Screening saves lives.”
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States outside of skin cancers. Medical experts recommend regular screenings, including mammograms, because early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.
More information about breast cancer symptoms, screening recommendations and treatment options is available through the American Cancer Society at cancer.org and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at cdc.gov/cancer.