Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - Virginia Rep. Jennifer Wexton has announced that she won't seek reelection next year after learning that she has Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, or PSP -- a severe form of Parkinson's.
In April, she announced that she was diagnosed with Parkinson's. On Monday, she said she recently received a modified diagnosis of PSP, which she describes as "a kind of Parkinson's on steroids."
Wexton says she's "heartbroken" to step away from something she loves doing, but she has decided to spend "valuable time" with her family. She plans to continue serving the rest of her term, which runs through 2024.
"While my time in Congress will soon come to a close, I’m just as confident and committed as ever to keep up the work that got me into this fight in the first place for my remaining time in office – to help build the future we want for our children," Wexton said. "I am truly humbled by the trust Virginians have placed in me, and I look forward to continuing to serve the people of our district.”