Justice Ginsburg is being treated for liver cancer, says she still can do her job
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said in a statement on Friday that she is being treated for a recurrence of cancer.
Ginsburg, 87, said she has been receiving chemotherapy for liver cancer since May 19, and it is “yielding positive results.” The Washington Post, Politico and NPR have coverage.
The most recent scan revealed “significant reduction of the liver lesions and no new disease,” Ginsburg said.
Ginsburg said her recent hospitalization to remove gallstones and treat an infection were unrelated to the cancer.
“I have often said I would remain a member of the court as long as I can do the job full steam,” Ginsburg said in the statement. “I remain fully able to do that.”
Here is Ginsburg’s full statement:
“On May 19, I began a course of chemotherapy (gemcitabine) to treat a recurrence of cancer. A periodic scan in February followed by a biopsy revealed lesions on my liver. My recent hospitalizations to remove gallstones and treat an infection were unrelated to this recurrence.
“Immunotherapy first essayed proved unsuccessful. The chemotherapy course, however, is yielding positive results. Satisfied that my treatment course is now clear, I am providing this information.
“My most recent scan on July 7 indicated significant reduction of the liver lesions and no new disease. I am tolerating chemotherapy well and am encouraged by the success of my current treatment. I will continue biweekly chemotherapy to keep my cancer at bay, and am able to maintain an active daily routine. Throughout, I have kept up with opinion writing and all other court work.
“I have often said I would remain a member of the court as long as I can do the job full steam. I remain fully able to do that.”
Ginsburg has had several health issues. She received radiation treatment for pancreatic cancer last year. In January, Ginsburg said she was cancer-free.
She has been treated in the past for lung, pancreatic and colon cancer. She also had a stent implanted during heart surgery to open a blocked coronary artery.
