Edgar Announces Cancer Diagnosis

(JIM EDGAR AT A 2021 APPEARANCE AT THE EFFINGHAM PERFORMANCE CENTER)

Former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar has announced he has pancreatic cancer.

The 78-year-old Edgar said he and wife Brenda are "facing a new, significant challenge."

A Charleston native, Edgar began his political career as a legislative intern in 1968. He later served as a state representative. In 1981, he was appointed to fill a vacancy as Illinois Secretary of State, then was elected twice to the position.

In 1990, Edgar succeeded Jim Thompson as governor. He won another term in 1994, but underwent heart surgery and retired from politics in 1998.

Edgar's statement read, "Brenda and I remain hopeful, and we are grateful for the kindness of so many who have offered their prayers and support."