Quick Takes

Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman undergoes double mastectomy, urges Kentuckians to schedule preventative exams

By: - December 18, 2023 6:29 pm

Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman and her daughter, Evelynne, wave to the crowd on election night at the Beshear-Coleman victory celebration, Nov. 7, 2023, in Louisville. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Austin Anthony)

Kentucky Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman announced Monday that she had undergone a double mastectomy.

“Concerns were raised to me during a recent routine physical exam. With a significant family history of cancer, I made the decision to have a double mastectomy. I am happy to report that a successful surgery was performed today, and I expect to make a full recovery.”

Coleman also said: “As Kentucky’s highest elected teacher, it is only fitting that I leave you with a little homework: Schedule those preventative exams you’ve put off, hug your people a little tighter and be kind, because everyone is fighting a battle you may know nothing about.

“I will see you soon, Team Kentucky.”

Gov. Andy Beshear said: “Britainy and I fully expect the leutenant governor to make a full recovery. She is our friend and a critical part of Team Kentucky. My family and Kentucky families are standing with her during this time. I join the lieutenant governor in encouraging Kentuckians to be proactive about their health and to schedule preventative exams.”

Creative Commons License

Our stories may be republished online or in print under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. We ask that you edit only for style or to shorten, provide proper attribution and link to our website. AP and Getty images may not be republished. Please see our republishing guidelines for use of any other photos and graphics.