Randy Christian, sole candidate for City Council District 5, announced Friday he was recently diagnosed with cancer.
Christian said he will undergo surgery Monday, then he will begin radiation and chemotherapy treatments at Covenant Health.
“I was fortunate enough to not have an opponent,” he said, “but as of 10 days ago, I have an opponent now, and that is cancer.”
The prognosis is “very good,” Christian said, and cancer will not deter him from fulfilling his City Council responsibilities. The cancer is isolated.
Treatment may delay Christian’s oath of office, which was scheduled to take place May 14 alongside the mayor and all other City Council members. Christian said he may take the oath one to two weeks later.
Until then, Karen Gibson will continue to represent District 5.
“I want people to know cancer is not the end of the world,” he said.
The cancer was found during a routine checkup. Christian urged the public to watch for warning signs and take care of their bodies.
Christian said cancer serves as a reminder to enjoy one’s life. He also said he wants to honor those who have lost their fights to cancer, as well as their loved ones.
“Cancer is around the corner and can be around the corner for all of us, so be diligent,” Christian said.
