State Rep. David Dill battles cancer

State Rep. David Dill, DFL-District 3A, is battling for his life against cancer. According to the Ely Timberjay newspaper, the 60-year-old Dill, who took ill after the 2015 session, is currently undergoing chemotherapy at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

District 3 Senator, and Majority Leader, Tom Bakk told WTIP he had visited Dill Tuesday in Rochester. He said Dill was “conversant” but the family was hesitant to release details of his illness at that time.

It’s the latest in a long string of illnesses that have plagued the state representative, who has struggled with diabetes and a heart condition.

According to the Timberjay, in 2010, Dill received a kidney transplant and later underwent surgery to install a pacemaker to treat an irregular heartbeat that had sapped his energy.

The newspaper further states that Dill’s cancer battle has fueled speculation that the state representative may not run for re-election in 2016. There has been no official announcement by Dill or his family on his plans.

Dill chairs the House Lands Subcommittee and is the DFL leader on the Mining and Outdoor Recreation Policy Committee. He also serves on the House Agriculture Finance Committee, the Environment and Natural Resources Policy and Finance Committee and the Greater Minnesota Economic and Workforce Development Policy Committee.

He’s played an influential role in legislation on mining and outdoor issues, and has been a strong advocate for education.