Lower Sackville councillor diagnosed with cancer

Lower Sackville Coun. Paul Russell is going to have to take it easy for a while.

At the start of Tuesday’s Halifax regional council meeting, Russell made an announcement that he has been diagnosed with cancer in his head and neck area.

“Beating this cancer will require almost two months of radiation and chemo treatment. Surgery is not recommended,” he said. “We caught this cancer early, and I do expect to recover fully.”

He said his role in working to help his community “is an honour and an incredible privilege, and it is not something that I take lightly.”

For the next two or three months while he is getting treatments, there will be “a significant change” in his workload, he said directing his remarks to HRM residents.

“There will likely be unscheduled absences and last-minute cancellations. I will not be around the community anywhere near as much as I would like. This is a big change for me, and it would be irresponsible of me to not provide an explanation.” 

He said he’s putting his health above everything else so he can “continue to work for my community.”

“Through this time, I am asking for your patience and your understanding as I navigate this chapter of my life.  Aside from this, I also ask each and every one of you to tell your loved ones that you love them.”

His emotional statement was greeted with supportive applause and best wishes from other members of council.

Russell was elected in District 15 in the 2020 election.