DES MOINES, Iowa — The family of Iowa Senator Claire Celsi announced that she has entered hospice care.

On Thursday, the senator’s family released the following statement:

“Senator Claire Celsi, our beloved wife, sister, mom, and grandma, has entered hospice care. Our family asks that you please respect our privacy during this difficult time. Thank you.”

Celsi, a Democrat, is serving her second term as an Iowa Senator representing District 16, which includes the areas of Clive, West Des Moines, and Windsor Heights. She was first elected to the position in 2018.