JOhn,

Earlier this week, I announced that I have been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge all the well-wishes and words of wisdom I've gotten from loved ones, friends, colleagues, and constituents. I know that I'm not facing this alone — and I plan to use my platform to better educate the public about Parkinson's and work in Congress to marshal greater funding for research that will one day help millions of people.

I want to make something clear: I've got lots of work still to do, and I’m not leaving political or public life anytime soon.

I'm more determined than ever to fight for greater access to affordable healthcare. It's not lost on me that I have access to doctors and treatments that aren't accessible or affordable to everyone else. And I’m thankful every day that Americans are no longer subjected to lifetime coverage caps, nor can we be kicked off our insurance due to a pre-existing condition. And in light of recent court rulings that have imperiled key provisions of the Affordable Care Act and the availability of medication, it's more important than ever to have people in Congress who will always put the health and well-being of families first.

The past few days have put a lot in perspective, JOhn. They've reinforced my determination to be the best public servant I can be. Serving in Congress is a privilege I don't take lightly, and I know that I have many years left in me to use my office to make life better for my constituents and for the American people.

To all who've reached out to me or to my office this week, it really means a lot. And now, let's double down together on the work that our country so desperately needs done.

Thank you,

Jennifer