Contributed by Lisa Olen| 27 December, 2004  19:47 GMT
 Governor Rell's cancer did not appear on her mammogram and was only discovered during a biopsy of a non-cancerous calcium deposit.
Connecticut's governor of less than six months, M. Jodi Rell, has a new challenge to face: She has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent a mastectomy today, following the discovery of a malignancy through a routine mammogram. The popular governor has requested no flowers or cards and says she'll be back on the job next week. Governor Rell's cancer was caught in its very early stages. The cancer itself did not appear on the mammogram, according to a statement issued by her office, and was only discovered during a biopsy of a non-cancerous calcium deposit. Tests have shown the disease has not spread.
Cheering On the Huskies
Full recovery is expected. Characteristically upbeat, Governor Rell said she is looking forward to watching tonight’s Motor City Bowl match-up between the University of Connecticut and the University of Toledo on ESPN.
“My family is here with me for the holidays and the doctors and I are ready,” the Governor said. “Nothing is going to keep me from cheering for the Huskies.”
Will Make 12/5 State of State Address
A mammogram revealed calcium deposits, called atypia, which Governor Rell’s doctor removed. During that process the doctor noticed two additional deposits, both of which were removed. One of them proved to be cancerous. Tests showed the disease had not spread to the lymph nodes.
The Governor wants her doctors to act quickly so that she will be back in time for the opening of the General Assembly and the State of the State Address on January 5.
'Bitterly Disappointed' by Rowland
Rell, 58, became Connecticut's governor in July, after the former chief, John Rowland, resigned amid allegations of misconduct. Last week, he entered a guilty plea on a federal conspiracy charge.
“Simple words cannot express the deep personal disappointment I feel," Governor Rell said in response to Rowland's official plea. "While we knew that this day might come we were never really prepared for the reality of it.... I’m more bitterly disappointed today than I was a year ago when former Governor Rowland first admitted his lies and actions. The irony of this happening during one of the most joyous seasons of the year adds bitter poignancy."
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