B. C. Liberal MLA Sindi Hawkins, first diagnosed with the cancer in 2004, is fighting leukemia for the third time, the premier announced on Tuesday.

"It is with a heavy heart that we've learned our good friend and colleague Sindi Hawkins is once again fighting to overcome the challenges she faces with leukemia," said Gordon Campbell in a statement.

"We'll miss Sindi in the Legislative Assembly, and we look forward to seeing her when she overcomes this illness."

In December, Sindi had received a second bone marrow transplant with cells donated by her sister. She had announced last year itself that she wouldn't seek re-election in May 2009 owing to health concerns.

Last year Hawkins, a three-time Liberal MLA, was awarded the BC Cancer Agency Community Care Award, in acknowledgment of her "unwavering commitment to supporting cancer patients in B. C."