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BRUCE ASATO / BASATO@STARADVERTISER.COM
2014 November 4 CTY - Ige HQ - Mark Takai and family take to the stage after the second printout at the Democratic Party Coordinated Election Night Celebration at the Manoa Ballroom of the Japanese Cultural Center. HSA photo by Bruce Asato
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U.S. Rep. Mark Takai has been diagnosed with a small tumor on his pancreas after undergoing tests to determine why he had been experiencing some stomach pain in recent weeks, according to a spokesman.
Takai, 48, was elected to his first term in Congress last year. He represents urban Oahu.
A spokesman for Takai’s office said his health problem caused him to miss some House votes Monday, and he is expected to miss some additional votes today.
Takai released a statement explaining that “the tests show that I have a small tumor in the pancreas and I will shortly begin treatment. My prognosis is very good thanks to early detection and my doctors are confident that I will make a speedy and full recovery.”
“I do not expect to be away from my duties for more than a brief period and look forward to quickly returning to serving the needs of my constituents in Hawaii,” Takai said in the statement.
Takai served in the state Legislature for 20 years before winning election last year to the U.S. House seat that was vacated by former Rep. Colleen Hanabusa. Takai is an Iraq War veteran and is a lieutenant colonel in the Hawaii Army National Guard.
“My wife Sami and our entire family are grateful for your prayers and support. We ask for continued respect of our family’s privacy as we move forward with treatment,” Takai said in his statement. Takai has a son and a daughter.
