Isle of Wight County sheriff’s candidate Jim Therrien has dropped out of next week’s election, citing health concerns.

His name will remain on Tuesday’s ballot.

Following is the text of a written statement issued Monday by Therrien:

“It is with a heavy heart that I must inform you of my intent to drop out of the race for Sheriff of Isle of Wight County. Recently, I was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis which is a terminal illness affecting the lungs. I realize that this will restrict my abilities and believe that it is not in my best interest or in the interest of the citizens of Isle of Wight County to continue in the campaign.

“Isle of Wight County is a county that is growing and in need of quality law enforcement. I hope and pray that whoever becomes Sheriff will need to be open minded, pro-active and progressive in dealing with the future of law enforcement in Isle of Wight. Cooperation, innovation and trust need to be characteristics that guide the actions and efforts of the Isle of Wight Sheriffs Office.

“In closing, I hope the new sheriff will support and protect the law enforcement professionals that make up the Isle of Wight County Sheriffs Office. Trust is the most important element in any relationship. This trust is desperately needed in Isle of Wight County. Furthermore, proper training,needed equipment and retention of quality personnel will only insure that our local law enforcement will be ready to meet and address the future issues that will face our community.

“It has been an honor to meet many citizens of Isle of Wight County during my campaign. There are many ideas, concerns and issues that have been discussed and shared during this campaign. I believe that our county supports the men and women of law enforcement. Moreover, I believe they will support whoever is elected sheriff and along with me, they share their ideas and desires of excellence in law enforcement in Isle of Wight County.”