Irvine’s MSP is to stand back from public duties after announcing she has stage three cervical cancer.
Ruth Maguire, the SNP MSP for Cunninghame South, said she will now take a leave of absence to concentrate on getting well.
Ms Maguire said: “On Tuesday, April 27, 2021 I received the difficult news that I had been diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer.
“Having now had time to process what this means for me and talk things over with my family, I feel it is only right that I share this information with my constituents.
“Although my condition is serious, doctors believe it is treatable. Therefore, with immediate effect, I will be taking a medical leave of absence from public duties and frontline parliamentary work for treatment and recovery.
“Throughout this period my parliamentary office in Irvine will continue to operate, with my team available to assist Cunninghame South constituents.
“Any local individual, community organisation, or business needing support or advice should not hesitate to get in touch via email: Ruth.Maguire.msp@Parliament.Scot or by telephone: (01294) 276730.
“I am eternally grateful for the support and care of my loving family and friends and, of course, our NHS.
“For now, I will concentrate on doing everything I can to get well and strong again and I thank everyone for their understanding.
“Being re-elected to serve my community is a privilege that I hold dearly every single day and I look forward to when I can resume my full duties.”
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