Illinois State Senator John Sullivan (D-Rushville) said he will take a leave of absence to be treated for a rare form of cancer.
Sullivan said he has liposarcoma. It's a type of cancer that creates a slow growing, painless mass that is usually found in the fat cells of the legs, though it can also be found in the arms, chest, neck, and in the space behind abdominal organs.
Sullivan's office recommends checking theLiddy Shriver Sarcoma Initiative website for more information about the cancer.
Sullivan said he had a small growth removed from his lower abdomen four years ago. His doctor recently noticed a recurrence so he will undergo another surgical procedure this week.
Sullivan believes he will be away from his full-time duties for no more than two or three weeks.
Sullivan was first elected to the Senate in November, 2002. He is up for re-election this year and is being opposed by Republican Randy Frese of Paloma.
