Liberal MP Salma Zahid announced Tuesday that she’s taking a medical leave while undergoing treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

“I am determined to fight this diagnosis, and to continue my work in service of the people of Scarborough–Centre as soon as I am medically able to do so,” wrote Zahid in a statement.

Zahid said she will begin an intensive course of chemotherapy today and following the first round of treatment, “the prognosis and treatment plan will become clearer.”

The Scarborough–Centre MP said she started experiencing occasional pain after returning home from a trip abroad over the holidays. Then last week after returning from Ottawa, the pain worsened. Zahid said she visited a clinic which led to tests and several visits to the hospital last week where her diagnosis was confirmed.

“By coincidence, the last time I spoke in the House of Commons was during question period on February 5th, regarding World Cancer Day. Canada has some of the best doctors, nurses and medical professionals in the world, and is doing world-leading research in this field. I am grateful for the care I have and will receive,” wrote Zahid.

Zahid said both her constituency office and Ottawa office will continue to help her constituents during her leave. Zahid was first elected in 2015.

“I would like to thank all of you in advance for your support and understanding, and I ask that my privacy and the privacy of my family be respected as the treatment begins. My team will provide updates as new information becomes available.”