GOP Senator Thom Tillis recovering from prostate cancer surgery

North Carolina GOP Sen. Thom Tillis said Thursday that he is recovering from surgery to treat prostate cancer.

Tillis said in a statement that he had the surgery this week and was thankful for "the doctors and nurses who have provided me with outstanding care at every step of the way."

"As I recover over the coming days, I’m blessed to have Susan, my best friend and the love of my life, at my side," he said on Twitter, referring to his wife. "We are beyond grateful to everyone who has lifted us up in prayer and sent us well wishes. I look forward to returning to the Senate soon."

Tillis announced last month that he would undergo the surgery and said that he expected "to make a full recovery."

Tillis, who maintained his Senate seat after winning last year's election, said he did not have any symptoms but that the cancer was discovered during an annual physical.

"I can’t emphasize enough how important routine screenings are, regardless of how healthy you think you are," he said. "I had no symptoms and would have never imagined I had cancer. 

The Senate is now in recess until next week.