GOP senator recovering from surgery for prostate cancer

Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) announced Thursday that he is recovering from surgery to treat prostate cancer.

Tillis, 60, said in a statement he underwent the surgery this week and thanked “the doctors and nurses who have provided me with outstanding care at every step of the way.

“As I recover over the coming days, I’m blessed to have Susan, my best friend and the love of my life, at my side,” he said, referring to his wife. “We are beyond grateful to everyone who has lifted us up in prayer and sent us well wishes.”

Tillis said he will return to the Senate “soon.”

As I recover over the coming days, I’m blessed to have Susan, my best friend and the love of my life, at my side. We are beyond grateful to everyone who has lifted us up in prayer and sent us well wishes. I look forward to returning to the Senate soon.

— Senator Thom Tillis (@SenThomTillis) April 8, 2021

The North Carolina Republican revealed last month that he would undergo the surgery, saying that he expected “to make a full recovery.”

Tillis, who won a second term last year, said he had no symptoms, but the cancer was detected during an annual physical.

“I can’t emphasize enough how important routine screenings are, regardless of how healthy you think you are. I had no symptoms and would have never imagined I had cancer,” Tillis said at the time, adding that “early detection can truly save lives.”

The upper chamber is currently in recess, with senators expected back in Washington on Monday.