Former Premier John Horgan is battling cancer for the third time.

B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix said yesterday that Horgan has taken a leave of absence from his role as Canada’s Ambassador to Germany.

Horgan was first diagnosed with cancer in 2008 and then again in 2021, when he received 35 sessions of radiation treatment.

He returned to work after his cancer treatment, but soon stepped down in 2022, saying his energy was flagging.

In November of 2023, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appointed him as Canada's ambassador to Germany.

Horgan has said his latest diagnosis is separate from the throat cancer he survived during his time as premier, and "has proven to be complicated."

"It is the third instance of cancer I have had, but I remain confident that I will again live long and prosper," said Horgan.

Premier David Eby said on X that the 64-year old Horgan is a fighter, and all British Columbians are pulling for him to make a speedy recovery.