ATLANTA, Ga. – Rep. John Lewis announced on Sunday that he will be undergoing treatment for stage 4 pancreatic cancer and his plans to remain in office, according to AJC.

The civil rights icon told AJC, “I’ve been in some kind of fight – for freedom, equality, basic human rights – for nearly my entire life. I have never faced a fight quite like this one.”

Rep. Lewis will return to Washington to continue working and begin his treatment within the coming days.

Former President Bill Clinton had this to say about the Representative, “If there’s anyone with the strength and courage to fight this, it’s you, John. Hillary and I love you, and we join with millions of other Americans in praying for you and your family.”

Lewis’ colleagues and friends are praying for him and sending support in whatever way that they can.