Hagedorn responding well to cancer treatment

First District Congressman Jim Hagedorn says his response to cancer treatment has been “remarkable.”

Hagedorn released a statement Tuesday updating constituents on his battle with kidney cancer. The first-term congressman was diagnosed with the disease following a routine check-up in February 2019. For the past 18 months, has been receiving immunotherapy treatment and medical care under the watch of Dr. Lance Pagliaro at Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

Hagedorn said intervals of CT scans have since demonstrated reduction or elimination of the disease, with no progression.

"I’m thankful that the healing hands of God and the Mayo Clinic are helping me live the longest and best life possible,” said Hagedorn.

Despite the diagnosis, Hagedorn said he has continued to work “as hard as ever.” That includes making 52 round trips to and from Washington, D.C., to perform his congressional duties.

"Throughout these 18 months of treatment, I’ve fully performed my congressional work, have not missed even one vote due to illness, held 27 Town Hall meetings, and made hundreds of in-person visits across southern Minnesota to meet community leaders, business owners, farmers, hospital employees and residents on Main Street,” said Hagedorn.

Hagedorn is up for election this November. He is on the ballot against DFLer Dan Feehan, a combat veteran who narrowly lost the seat in 2018.

Cover photo: Hagedorn in 2019 / William Forsman