San Diego Councilwoman Marti Emerald, 54, has been diagnosed with breast cancer, she and her press secretary confirmed Friday.
Emerald, who represents Council District 9, confirmed she is battling breast cancer on a message posted to her Facebook page around noon. In her note, she says she was diagnosed this week and is now preparing for outpatient surgery.
“I got the news while in Washington, D.C., on a mission with the Chamber of Commerce to bring more federal resources to the people of San Diego. I was thinking water, energy, affordable housing and transportation. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine bringing back this intimate appreciation and new sense of advocacy for a disease that strikes women and men so randomly,” Emerald writes.
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The councilwoman goes on to say her doctors have told her she has an “excellent prognosis for full recovery.”
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“I am growing a new and deep appreciation for those who have walked this path before me,” Emerald writes, citing the names of close friends who have battled breast cancer.
She also thanks her fiancé and Rabbi for their support during this difficult time, according to her
Facebook post.
“I look forward to a full recovery and getting back to work and back to the business of serving our city. I also look forward to the opportunity to serve those also struggling with breast cancer and will use this Facebook site to guide you to resources that may help you or loved ones in your journey for a cure,” she adds.
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Emerald, a former broadcast journalist of 30 years, joined the San Diego City Council in 2008. In addition to leading District 9, the College Area resident is currently serving her sixth year as the Chair of the Public Safety & Livable Neighborhoods Committee.
