Lynda Petty diagnosed with CNS Lymphoma

STATESVILLE, N.C. -- Richard Petty's wife, Lynda, has been diagnosed with CNS (Central Nervous System) Lymphoma. Mrs. Petty will be treated at the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University Medical Center.

"We are thankful for the medical team at Duke. My wife Lynda is in good hands," Richard Petty said Thursday in a team statement. "The doctors and our family are very optimistic that the treatment for this cancer will be successful."

The Petty family appreciates the support from family, friends, and fans as well as the continued respect for their privacy during this time.

Richard and Lynda Petty celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2009.