Archbishop of York has prostate cancer

Dr. John Sentamu confirmed that he is receiving treatment for an advanced form of prostate cancer.

09:52 03 June 2013

The office of the Archbishop of York has confirmed that Dr. John Sentamu has prostate cancer and is currently receiving treatment. In a statement, Dr. John Sentamu said that he will not be around for some time. He also thanked the people at St. James’ Hospital, Leeds,who were involved in his operation.

  

His statement reads: "I am thankful and grateful for Mr Bill Cross, and his surgical team at St James' Hospital Leeds, who today operated on me for a locally advanced cancer of the prostate. I am also grateful to the nursing staff who are caring from me.

 

"I am thankful, too, for all of you who regularly pray for me and support me, especially my staff at Bishopthorpe Palace.

 

"I will be out of action for some time, and will continue to value your prayers. I look forward to resuming my ministry as soon as possible."

 

Dr. Sentamu, who became Bishop of Stepney in 1996, is originally from Uganda. He fled the country and went to the UK after speaking out against the regime of Idi Amin. He became Archbishop of York in 2005.