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Justice Ginsburg says cancer has returned, but won't retire

Posted at 9:25 AM, Jul 17, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-17 12:34:52-04

WASHINGTON (AP) — Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg says she is receiving chemotherapy for a recurrence of cancer, but has no plans to retire from the Supreme Court.

The 87-year-old Ginsburg said her treatment so far has succeeded in reducing lesions on her liver and that she will continue chemotherapy sessions every two weeks.

She spent time in the hospital this week for a possible infection, but Ginsburg said it was unrelated to the cancer.

Here is Friday's full statement as distributed by the court toseveral outlets, including CNN:
"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 gall stones 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 bi-weekly 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."