From RezNet

Wilma Mankiller, considered one of the most influential Native Americans in America and the first female chief of a major tribe, has been diagnosed with stage IV metastatic pancreatic cancer, according to Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chad Smith.

In an e-mail to Cherokee tribal employees Tuesday, Smith forwarded a message from Mankiller and her husband, Charlie Soap.

"I decided to issue this statement because I want my family and friends to know that I am mentally and spiritually prepared for this journey; a journey that all human beings will take at one time or another," Mankiller said. "I learned a long time ago that I can't control the challenges the Creator sends my way but I can control the way I think about them and deal with them."