John McCain speaks during a press conference at the U.S. Capitol February 5, 2015 in Washington, DC. (Getty)
The Mayo Clinic in Phoenix released a statement Wednesday saying that doctors discovered and removed a brain tumor known as a “glioblastoma” when McCain, 80, went in for a routine exam over the weekend. Doctors first found a blood clot that required surgery, and it turned out to be cancerous. The surgery lasted about three to four hours and post-surgery brain scans show that the diseased tissue had been “completely removed,” CNN reported.
“The Senator and his family are reviewing further treatment options with his Mayo Clinic care team,” the statement read. “Treatment options may include a combination of chemotherapy and radiation.”
According to the American Brain Tumor Association, the type of cancer McCain has forms in the tissue of the brain and spinal cord. It’s the same type former Senator Ted Kennedy had. Kennedy died from the disease August 25, 2009 at the age of 77.
McCain’s office also released a statement saying the senator, who’s been in office since 1987, has been blown away by the support he’s gotten from others since he was diagnosed.
“Senator McCain appreciated the outpouring of support he has received over the last few days,” it says. “He is in good spirits as he continues to recover at home with his family in Arizona.”
Read the full statement below:
Oh no. John McCain has a brain tumor.
McCain is a veteran of the United States Navy and was a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War. He launched a campaign for president in 2000, but eventually withdrew and endorsed George W. Bush.
McCain tried to run for president again in 2008 and became the Republican nominee. He lose the general election to Barack Obama.
Here are some of the statements issued by notable people:
Donald Trump
Trump on McCain
Barack Obama
John McCain is an American hero & one of the bravest fighters I’ve ever known. Cancer doesn’t know what it’s up against. Give it hell, John.
Daughter Meghan McCain
Statement regarding my father @SenJohnMcCain:
Hillary Clinton
John McCain is as tough as they come. Thinking of John, Cindy, their wonderful children, & their whole family tonight.
Senator Marco Rubio
.@SenJohnMcCain is an American hero. I pray for him and his family. I look forward to seeing him soon.
Ohio Governor John Kasich
If there is anyone who knows how to fight against the challenges life throws at us, it’s @SenJohnMcCain. Prayers for a speedy recovery.
Senator Chris Murphy
Heartbreaking news. I’ve traveled the world w @SenJohnMcCain. I learned a lot from him – first and foremost, there is no one tougher.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo
My thoughts and prayers are with Senator John McCain and his family tonight. Here’s to a speedy recovery for a true American hero.
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards
An American hero and a true fighter. Donna and I are sending prayers to @SenJohnMcCain and his family.
Senator Bob Casey
I’m praying for @SenJohnMcCain & his family tonight. Our nation is with him as he takes on this fight.
The Arizona Cardinals
Sending our thoughts & best wishes to @SenJohnMcCain who we know will face this challenge with his trademark strength, resolve & toughness.
Senator Tim Kaine
Thinking about a hero, my Chairman, my friend John McCain. Stay strong!
Senator Chuck Grassley
Barb and I will pray for John McCain recovery fr brain cancer. Pls join us
The House Democrats
.@SenJohnMcCain & his family are in our thoughts and prayers.
