Gov. Larry Hogan began chemotherapy treatments for Stage 3 cancer on Saturday, he announced.
In a post on his Facebook page Sunday, Hogan said, in part "I'm happy to report that things could not be going any better. I just made it through the first 24 hours of chemo. I am feeling healthy and strong. We are killing cancer cells left and right and I have no side effects. My medical team could not be better."
He said Thursday that he planned to check into the University of Maryland Medical Center on Monday to undergo four days of chemotherapy.
At a State House news conference on transportation issues, Hogan said his doctors have determined through bone marrow testing that he has Stage 3 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, not Stage 4 as he had suggested was possible earlier this week.
"It makes my chances much, much better," Hogan said.
Thursday's news conference was the governor's first public appearance since he announced Monday that he had been diagnosed with a "very advanced and very aggressive" cancer that has spread throughout his body, but that he expects to beat the disease. The first-term governor also said he plans to stay in office while being treated, but Lt. Gov. Boyd K. Rutherford's duties could increase.
Hogan spokesman Doug Mayer said no provision will be made for an emergency transfer of the governor's responsibilities to Rutherford next week because it will not be necessary. Hogan will not be under anesthesia and will be in regular communication with his staff, Mayer said.
At his news conference, Hogan said he was humbled and touched by the expressions of support he has received since revealing his diagnosis, including conversations with Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller and House Speaker Michael E. Busch, the Democratic leaders of the General Assembly.
"The good part of it is the outpouring of friendship from all across the aisle," said Hogan, a Republican.