RALEIGH — A fund-raising letter sent to supporters of Senator Jesse Helms suggests he may run for a sixth term in 2002.

The letter says that the 79-year-old Republican feels he is ready for one more campaign.

A doctor's letter released by Helms' staff says the senator is in good health. Dr. John Eisold, Congress' attending physician, says Helms' heart is sound and his blood pressure is excellent.

The letter also noted that Helms has regained strength in his legs since knee-replacement surgery in 1998. He often uses a motorized scooter on Capitol Hill and typically walks with a cane.