Workman Diagnosed With Cancer

House District 47 Republican candidate and former Real Estate Council of Austin board member Paul Workman has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Full statements from the Workman campaign and his opponent, Rep. Valinda Bolton, D-Austin, after the break.

"This last week, as a result of a recent routine examination, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I am fortunate doctors caught it early, and have been given an optimistic prognosis for beating this disease, just as my father and brother did when they were diagnosed with the same form of cancer.

"I am blessed with a remarkably loving family, anchored by my wife of 39 years, Sherry, my two children and six grandchildren. Their support and love means the world to me.

"After a great deal of prayer, I decided to make this known because I am seeking a public office. My promise is this: I’ll keep every commitment, shake every hand, make every call and try to convey my message to as many voters as possible. I won’t lose a moment, I won’t lose a step and I’ll be ready to serve the people of this district in January and continue to fulfill my duties to my companies.

"Thirty seven years in the construction industry has toughened me up. I will defeat this disease, and after I am elected I will show the same fight in representing the people of House District 47.

"I will undergo surgery in November. Recovery is expected to take about two weeks. Doctors have every expectation that they will be able to completely remove the malignant cells, that no further treatment will be needed and that I can expect to have many more years of a productive life. I am grateful for the love, support and prayers of my family, friends and the many people I have been blessed to know since moving to Travis County nearly 30 years ago."

Bolton's campaign has issued its own statement in response:

"There is never a good time to discover you have cancer, but it must be especially difficult in the middle of a tough campaign. I’m hopeful that the prognosis is as good as he’s indicated," said Rep. Valinda Bolton. "Paul and his family will be in my prayers."

We at Newsdesk would like to add our best wishes for a speedy and complete recovery.