Mayor Tom Henry diagnosed with stomach cancer

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry says he will start chemotherapy next week after being diagnosed with “late-stage” stomach cancer.

Henry says his prognosis is not good, but he plans to keep working for the city as long as possible. His wife, Cindy, died about a month ago after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Henry, 72, has been mayor since 2008 and was just reelected last year for a historic fifth term.

Below is a statement from Mayor Tom Henry. Mayor Henry delivered the statement during a press briefing at his office at Citizens Square.

As most of you know, our family, friends, and community are still respectfully mourning the passing of my beloved wife, Cindy, just a month ago.

My family and I are forever grateful for the outpouring of love and affection we have received from our entire community since her passing. The respect you have shown to us in honor of Cindy will never be forgotten.

I have asked everyone here today to not only thank you for the love you have conveyed to us in recent weeks, but also to unfortunately and regretfully announce that I have been recently diagnosed with late-stage stomach cancer.

My initial scans have shown that the cancer is currently spreading through my lymph nodes and other organs. Therefore, my prognosis is not exactly encouraging. I will, however, begin chemotherapy treatments next week.

I assure you that I have complete confidence in the team in charge of my care and in my ability to carry out my term as your mayor for as long as God sees fit.

My promise to all of you still stands – to move this city forward, together.

I also promise to make all of you aware of any, ongoing health updates as often as possible.

Thank you for this opportunity to be honest with all of you. I am asking though for privacy and prayers while I navigate this difficult situation.

Your trust, understanding, and kindness continue to mean the world to myself and my family.

Thank you.