Jefferson County Commission President Jimmie Stephens announced Thursday that he has been diagnosed with a treatable form of cancer.

Reading initially from a prepared statement at the end of the commission committee meeting this morning, Stephens said the cancer was discovered following a recent routine medical procedure.

The District 3 commissioner said he has begun treatment, which will continue for the next several weeks.

“I remain strong in my faith and committed to my responsibilities as I expect to work throughout my treatment,” he read from the dais. “I will continue my duties as commission president and serving the people of the third district.”

Stephens thanked the “outstanding” medical team at UAB and said Jefferson County has the “best medical professionals in their fields serving our community.”

The commissioner said later that doctors discovered a squamous cell carcinoma that had moved to his axillary lymph node.

“It came up in a routine check, and they were able to biopsy it on October the 31st,” he said. “From that point, our wonderful doctors at UAB were engaged. They diagnosed. They worked the treatment plan and I’m working that plan right now.

“But it’s localized there, and I’ve begun therapy and will have surgery and then more therapy after that,” Stephens continued. “Prognosis looks very good.”

The commission president expressed gratitude for the prayers and overwhelming outpouring of support he’s received from so many.

“Your love and encouragement strengthen my resolve and mean the world to me and my wife, Mona, and our entire family,” he read. “Thank you for your understanding and support as we move forward together.”