Senator John McCain Discontinuing Treatment for Brain Cancer, Family Says

Senator John McCain of Arizona, who has been fighting brain cancer for more than a year, is discontinuing treatments his family announced Friday.

“Last summer, Senator John McCain shared with Americans the news our family already knew: He had been diagnosed with an aggressive glioblastoma, and the prognosis was serious. In the year since, John has surpassed expectations for his survival. But the progress of disease and the inexorable advance of age render their verdict,” the family said in a statement. “With his usual strength of will, he has now chosen to discontinue medical treatment.”

Senator McCain began receiving treatment after being diagnosed with brain cancer in June 2017. He has been absent from Washington since last December. 

Family members have gathered together in Arizona and people say the senator's death is imminent, the New York Times reported. 

"Our family is immensely grateful for the support and kindness of all his caregivers over the last year, and for the continuing outpouring of concern and affection from John's many friends and associates, and the many thousands of people who are keeping him in their prayers. God bless and thank you all."

Cindy McCain wrote on Twitter "I love my husband with all my heart. God bless everyone who has cared for my husband along this journey." 

McCain's daughter, Meghan McCain also tweeted her appreciation to people for their love and prayers while her father battled brain cancer over the last year. 

Photo: Getty Images