Gov. Larry Hogan Offers Powerful Message To Cancer Patients

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Powerful message. Governor Hogan offers compassion and encouragement to cancer patients throughout the state. He attended his first public event since completing his final round of treatment for non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Pat Warren with more on what he had to say.

The governor has admitted the treatments were worse than he thought they would be, but at no point has he been ready to give up.

His first day back in the public eye is to announce a new transit system for the city.

"And we all know the governor is winning his fight against cancer and just recently finished his final round of chemotherapy," said Pete Rahn, Maryland Secretary of Transportation.

Governor Hogan says he's getting his strength back and feels like he's getting back in the swing of things.

Warren: "What advice would you give people who are going through the same thing right now and might be feeling a little more despairing than you have?"

Hogan: "You know, I've met so many people going through this process and learned a lot from others who have gone through tougher fights than me, especially some of these kids I've met. I think having a positive attitude, I believe in the power of prayer, it's great to have a lot of friends who are supporting you."

Since his first treatment in June, the governor has remained upbeat.

"Under the circumstances, don't I look pretty good," Hogan joked.

"It's going to take me a couple of months to get back to full speed and before my hair gets growing again, but I'm really feeling pretty strong," he said Thursday.

"Our prayers continue to be with you and we know the light shines on you and we wish you the best," said Senator Catherine Pugh, (D) Baltimore.

The governor would have those best wishes spread around.

"One out of every three people is going to be affected by cancer. It affects almost every single family, and everybody has a loved one or a close friend. You've got to stay positive. Do what your doctors tell you, and the prayers don't hurt," said Hogan.

He says the blessing of the pope didn't hurt, either. The governor is again thanking everyone for the support.

Governor Hogan's health continues to be closely monitored.