Oregon state lawmaker Annessa Hartman, age 37, recently shared emotional news with the public. She announced that she has been diagnosed with Stage 3 cervical cancer, a health update that arrived during an already heartbreaking time.
Her close friend and fellow lawmaker, Hòa Nguyễn, passed away from cancer just days earlier at the age of 41.
Hartman said the past week has been extremely difficult, but she wanted to speak openly about her diagnosis to help others who may be going through something similar.
Hartman Opens Up About Her Diagnosis
Hartman explained that she learned about the cancer diagnosis the same week she heard of her friend Nguyễn’s passing. She said she still wakes up feeling like everything is unreal. Losing a colleague and then facing her own medical challenge has been overwhelming.
Nguyễn, who represented the Portland area, died in early October. A memorial was held for her this week, and lawmakers gathered to honour her life and work.
Hartman said she struggled with the decision to share her diagnosis publicly. It was especially hard because she had to talk to her children first. She described that moment as one of the most painful conversations she has ever had.
Beginning Treatment and Staying Hopeful
The lawmaker will begin her cancer treatment in December at the Oregon Health & Science University. Even though this is a tough diagnosis, Hartman remains hopeful and committed to fighting it.
She said she wants her story to support people who are also experiencing health struggles, especially those who are trying to manage work, family responsibilities and a complicated health system at the same time.
Quick Overview of Hartman’s Diagnosis
Below is a simple table summarizing the key details:
| Diagnosis Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Type of cancer | Stage 3 cervical cancer |
| Age | 37 years old |
| Treatment begins | December |
| Hospital | Oregon Health & Science University |
| Public announcement | After friend Hòa Nguyễn’s death |
| Plans to continue public service | Yes |
Her Work in Oregon Politics
Hartman’s role in Oregon politics has been active and impactful. She has represented Gladstone, Oregon City, and parts of Clackamas County since 2023.
Earlier this year, she was the only Democrat to vote against her party’s major transportation bill. Soon after, she announced she would not run for re-election to the state Legislature.
Even with her diagnosis, Hartman says she plans to continue her journey in public service. She still intends to run for a seat on the Clackamas County Commission.
She believes public service is not something you do only when life is easy—it is a responsibility she feels deeply, especially now.
Hartman has also been a strong voice for survivors of child sexual abuse. She supports a bill that would allow victims unlimited time to take legal action against their abusers.
Hartman’s Cultural Identity and Personal Message
Hartman is a mother and is also the third Indigenous person ever elected to the Oregon statehouse. She is a member of the Haudenosaunee, Cayuga Nation, and Snipe Clan. Her cultural background plays an important role in her identity and leadership.
She ended her public statement with a message that she hopes everyone remembers:
Take care of your health. Get screened. Slow down and pay attention to your life while you are living it.
A Difficult Year for Oregon Lawmakers
This year has been especially painful for Oregon’s political community. Nguyễn was the second Democratic lawmaker to die while in office. Earlier in April, State Sen. Aaron Woods, age 75, also died from cancer during his first term.
Annessa Hartman’s story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change. Even as she faces Stage 3 cervical cancer, she continues to stay hopeful, strong and committed to serving the people of Oregon.
Her courage in sharing her diagnosis inspires many, especially those dealing with their own health struggles. Her message—to prioritise your health and appreciate life—stands as an important lesson for everyone.
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