The 830 Times
At 7:50 p.m. Wednesday, Val Verde County Judge Lewis Owens announced he’d been diagnosed with cancer.
Owens, in the midst of a re-election campaign, said it’s full speed ahead on the campaign trail, although he’d had a tough time finding the
right words to share the news via video, which has become one of his leadership trademarks.
Below is the text of his announcement:
How’s it going, Val Verde County.
Aside from being a husband, father, and grandfather, serving as your County Judge for the past eight years has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. We’ve faced pandemics, snowstorms, flooding, the migrant situation, and plenty of other challenges together. Through it all, I’ve tried to lead with honesty, integrity, and transparency.
I want you to hear this directly from me – I have been diagnosed with cancer.
We went to the hospital on Sunday and received the news a little while ago. I tried to make a video, but I couldn’t get past the first few seconds.
But I want y’all to know something else: I plan on fighting.
We’re still finishing this election, and if the voters give me the opportunity to serve again, I still fully intend to do so.
My family and I plan to take things one day at a time. We don’t have every answer right now, but we’ll face what comes next together – with faith and a whole lot of fight.
I’m sharing this because I have always promised to be honest and transparent with the people I serve, but also because I love y’all.
So say a prayer for me and my family when you get the chance. We will keep you informed of the progress as we learn it.
As always, Love Y’all and God bless.
