Today, in remarks delivered on the floor of the Iowa Senate, Sen. Catelin Drey announced her recent diagnosis of stage one uterine cancer and upcoming hysterectomy. Sen. Drey has released the following statement, accompanied by Senate Democratic Leader Janice Weiner.
“This story is not unique to me. I’m simply the newest person admitted to Iowa’s least desirable club,” Sen. Drey (D-Sioux City).
“Cancer is a cold, indifferent bully running roughshod through our state. It doesn’t care about our families, it doesn’t check our resumes, our politics, or our bank accounts,” Sen. Drey said. “But I’m one of the fortunate few. Access to quality care and early detection has given me an advantage that isn’t afforded to so many Iowans. Years of policy inaction have made early detection harder, treatment more expensive, and recovery more precarious for tens of thousands of our friends and neighbors.”
“I didn’t choose this diagnosis, but I do choose what I do with it,” Sen. Drey said. “I will be transparent about my recovery and all that comes with it. What it looks like, what it costs, what’s covered and what isn’t. Silence is what perpetuates bad systems.”
“This interruption may temporarily slow me, but I’m not going anywhere. I’ll be back to work as soon as I am able; eager and ready to serve the people of SD 1,” Sen. Drey said.
“The qualities that make Catelin such an exceptional senator and representative for her district will serve her well through this period of recovery. She is resilient, determined and unwilling to be slowed by this temporary setback,” Senate Democratic Leader Janice Weiner (D-Iowa City) said. “All in this state are touched by cancer – I’m so grateful to Senator Drey for shining a light on it. My caucus and I look forward to welcoming her back at the Capitol soon, working in service of the people of Northwest Iowa and Iowans everywhere.”