Grace Lore was recently elected to her second term in the BC Legislature as MLA for the Victoria-Beacon Hill riding, and she was appointed to remain at her post as Minister of Children and Family Development.
However, on Thursday, December 5th, Lore announced in a statement that she has recently been diagnosed with cancer and will be stepping down from her role as Minister.
“Last month I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer,” Lore wrote in her statement.
“This diagnosis was very sudden, and I am working with medical professionals to address this head on, right away.”
She says she is stepping away from the Ministry of Children and Family Development only temporarily while she prioritizes her health.
“This file is so important and requires the full attention of someone to make the changes we need because the kids need us to get it right,” she continued.
“By stepping back I will be able to focus solely on my treatment and recovery, so I can get back to doing this work as soon as possible.”
Even though she is stepping back from the ministry, Lore does not intend on leaving her post as MLA for the Victoria-Beacon Hill electoral district.
“I intend to participate in important votes in the House, to ensure the stability of our government and make sure we can be delivering on the priorities of British Columbians,” noted Lore.
“Being a MLA and Minister and helping people in my community and across the province, is truly an honour.”
Premier David Eby released a statement regarding Lore’s diagnosis on December 5th.
“I am deeply saddened by the news that Grace Lore has been diagnosed with cancer,” said Premier Eby.
He expressed that he too looks forward to Lore leading the Ministry of Children and Family Development when she is ready to, but in the meantime, Coquitlam-Burke Mountain MLS Jodie Wickens will take over as interim Minister.
“Grace has persevered through immense personal family challenges in recent years, including the illness of her young son,” Eby continued.
“She is an inspiration to me and to people right across the province. I know that her family, Rob, Eve and Asher will be wrapping her with love during this time.”
Additionally, her opponent during the election in October, the BC Green Party’s Sonia Furstenau, released a statement of support regarding Lore taking a step back.
“On behalf of the BC Greens, I want to extend my sincere support to Grace Lore as she faces this difficult and worrisome diagnosis,” said Sonia Furstenau, Leader of the BC Greens.
“We are all thinking of Grace and her family during this time, and we send our best wishes for her treatment and recovery. We look forward to seeing her back to full health and continuing to serve the people of British Columbia soon.”
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