State Rep. Bridget Malloy Kosierowski revealed Tuesday she has breast cancer.
The Waverly Twp. Democrat said she was recently diagnosed, in a short video posted to social media. Kosierowski, who represents the 114th state House District, said her cancer was detected through screening and urged others to get checked.
“I really wanted 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,” she said. “Early detection in cancer means a better outcome.”
Kosierowski, who was unavailable for further comment Tuesday, is running for reelection in November. The effect of her announcement on her campaign was unclear. She ran unopposed in the Democratic primary. Logan Lombardo of Clarks Summit is her Republican opponent.
Kosierowski, who has represented the 114th District since 2019, said she will continue to serve while undergoing treatment. Her offices in Scranton and Harrisburg are open, she said. The video also urges people seeking local cancer resources and information to call her office at 570-562-2350.
“While I am fighting this breast cancer, I want you to know I will still be fighting for you,” she said.
The longtime longtime registered nurse said breast cancer is treatable and sometimes curable. She asked viewers to remind family and friends to get screened.
“Screening saves lives,” she said.
Kosierowski won a special election in 2019 after the death of state Rep. Sid Michaels Kavulich. She was elected to her first full term in November 2020.
The 114th state House District includes Benton Twp., Clarks Green, Clarks Summit, Dickson City, Greenfield Twp., North Abington Twp., Scott Twp., and parts of Scranton, South Abington Twp. and Waverly Twp.