State Senate President Mike Miller announced today he is being treated for prostate cancer, but the 76-year-old legislator vowed to continue overseeing the chamber while undergoing chemotherapy.

Miller said he told the members of his chamber about the diagnosis in the spirit of honesty.

He became emotional throughout Thursday’s floor session, choking up as he recognized several former legislators and former members of his staff who were watching from the gallery.

 “I always had the best people,” he said. “Anyway, the body’s given me the opportunity to name the best people.”

In a written statement, he said he was initially diagnosed in July and was prescribed medications. But in late December, his doctor told him that the cancer could no longer be managed solely with medication. He will be undergoing chemotherapy during the legislative session.

He said in the statement that doctors have told him he will “be fully able to join my colleagues and preside this session,” despite undergoing chemotherapy sessions.

And he made it clear that he plans to remain focused on passing laws.

“Now,” he wrote, “let’s get to work.”