Longtime newsman Tom Brokaw Tuesday revealed that he has cancer.

Brokaw, an NBC News special correspondent and former Nightly News anchor, was diagnosed at the Mayo Clinic in August with multiple myeloma, a cancer that affects blood cells in the bone marrow. His doctors are encouraged with the progress he is making and Brokaw has continued his work for the network, including contributions to NBC's Winter Olympics coverage in Sochi.

"With the exceptional support of my family, medical team and friends, I am very optimistic about the future and look forward to continuing my life, my work and adventures still to come," he said in a statement Tuesday. "I remain the luckiest guy I know."

He continued: "I am very grateful for the interest in my condition but I also hope everyone understands I wish to keep this a private matter."

During his treatment, Brokaw has continued to work on NBC News projects, including a two-hour documentary on the assassination of JFK and appearances on Today, Nightly News with Brian Williams, Meet the Press and MSNBC.