Gov. Kay Ivey announced today that she has lung cancer.

The governor said her doctor found a spot on her lung in the last few weeks and that tests determined it was a “tiny, isolated malignancy.”

Ivey, 74, said she will undergo an outpatient treatment at UAB on Friday morning. She said that will allow her to have a series of radiation treatments that have shown a high rate of success. The governor said she expects the impact on her schedule to be minimal.

The doctor who identified the malignancy said he expects the governor to make a full recovery.

Here is the governor’s full statement:

“Throughout my life, I am constantly reminded that I have so much for which to be thankful; God has been incredibly gracious to me.

“One of the highest honors you have given me is serving as your governor.

“Because I always shoot straight with you, I want to share a recent challenge that has been placed in front of me.

“Within the past few weeks, during a routine exam, my longtime family physician discovered a spot on my lung that was unusual. Additional tests confirmed that this was, indeed, a tiny, isolated malignancy.

“The good news is I am one of the fortunate ones where this was discovered early, and it is very treatable.

“The better news is Alabama is home to some of the world’s leading physicians. My team of doctors have assured me this treatment has a very high rate of success and will have a minimal impact on my schedule.

“Tomorrow morning, I will travel to UAB for an outpatient procedure, which will allow me to soon begin a series of specialized radiation treatments. None of this will prevent me from continuing to serve as your governor and doing the work you elected me to do.

“Naturally, I welcome your prayers and your support. Just as so many others who have been affected by cancer, I am confident of God’s plan and purpose for my life and feel extremely fortunate this was caught so early.

“May God continue to bless each of you and the great state of Alabama.”

The governor’s office released a comment form Dr. William P. Saliski, Jr., D.O., with the Montgomery Pulmonary Consultants:

“Governor Kay Ivey was referred to me to review an abnormal spot on her lung. A biopsy was performed and pathology results revealed a small, isolated malignancy. Upon consultation with our cancer team and reviewing all options available, Governor Ivey determined that these minimal radiation treatments are her preference. Governor Ivey has opted for the least invasive treatment which has an excellent cure rate. I expect her to make a full recovery.”

Reaction to the news from around the state came quickly. Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth released this statement:

“Throughout her career, Kay Ivey has proven herself to be a strong and determined woman who will confront any obstacle placed in her path. The courage and tenacity she has shown in the past will serve her well in the challenge that lies ahead.

"Throughout her treatment, Gov. Ivey will carry with her the prayers, thoughts, and well-wishes of millions of Alabamians, and those of my family and I will certainly be among them.”

Terry Lathan, Chairman of the Alabama Republican Party, issued a statement Thursday afternoon. “Governor Ivey’s announcement that she will be undergoing outpatient radiation for a malignant spot on her lung is met with great concern, but we are confident that the Steel Magnolia of Alabama will recuperate quickly. We hope it is a great comfort to her that millions of Alabamians will lift her name up to the Lord’s ear during this time," she stated. "We also should take this opportunity to be reminded of so many who have walked this challenging path. We believe Governor Ivey will tackle this moment with the tenacity, faith and grace she does with everything.”

State Auditor Jim Zeigler said: “As a cancer survivor myself from 2001, I know that early detection, treatment, and prayer can work. I am confident Gov. Ivey will have the best treatment available, and we have wonderful cancer programs in Alabama. Kay Ivey is one tough lady, and I am confident that the cancer will be the loser in this fight.”

I know that all of the members of the Alabama House join me in asking for God’s healing hands to embrace our governor throughout her treatment and recovery. — Speaker McCutcheon (@MacDistrict25) September 19, 2019

Stephanie and I join countless others who will be praying for @GovernorKayIvey's full recovery - We are all united in her journey and in the journeys of so many who are never alone in defeating #cancer. https://t.co/kWb4gCIJcz — Walt Maddox (@WaltMaddox) September 19, 2019

Along with many others, Carol and I are praying for healing and a speedy recovery for @GovernorKayIvey. Please join our prayers. — Rep. Danny Garrett (@DannyGarrett44) September 19, 2019

What do you want to know about Ivey’s announcement? Submit your questions in the form below. If you’re unable to see the form, click here to open it in a new window.”

@GovernorKayIvey, Beth and I will be thinking about you and praying for a speedy recovery. https://t.co/lJBz25tMtL — Mike Rogers (@RepMikeRogersAL) September 19, 2019

Heavenly Father, watch with us over your child Kay, and grant her that perfect health which is yours alone to give. In Jesus name, Amen. — Dick Brewbaker (@dick_brewbaker) September 19, 2019

Regardless of your politics I hope that we will pray for a speedy recovery for ⁦@GovernorKayIvey⁩ Gov. Kay Ivey announces she has lung cancer #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/g6LdUCrfe6 — Cam Ward (@SenCamWard) September 19, 2019