Representative Gabrielle Giffords, shot during a shooting spree in Tucson, Ariz., last year, said Sunday she will step down this week from the U.S. Congress to focus on her recovery.

“I have more work to do on my recovery, so to do what is best for Arizona I will step down this week,” Giffords said, posting the announcement on social media likeTwitter, Facebook, and YouTube.

“I’m getting better. Every day my spirit is high. I will return and we will work together for Arizona and this great country. Thank you very much,” she added.

IN PICTURES: Gabrielle Giffords

Giffords’ office said the congresswoman would submit her letter of resignation this week to House Speaker John Boehner and Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer.

Giffords, a Democrat who gained a reputation as a centrist, is serving her third term. She plans to attend President Barack Obama‘s State of the Union address to Congress on Tuesday.

Obama said Giffords represents the very best of what public service should be and that her “cheerful presence” would be missed in Washington.

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