John McCain’s family release heartbreaking statement as war hero stops cancer treatment

Vietnam war hero John McCain’s family have released a heartbreaking statement announcing the senator will cease treatment for his aggressive form of brain cancer.

After over a year fighting the terrible tumour, the 81-year-old has chosen to put an end to medical treatment that has allowed him to live far longer than initially expected.

In a touching statement shared on Twitter by the senator’s wife Cindy, his family explained how McCain’s condition and battle against the aggressive gliblastoma has led him to make the difficult decision.

I love my husband with all of my heart. God bless everyone who has cared for my husband along this journey. pic.twitter.com/v27sEbboii

— Cindy McCain (@cindymccain) August 24, 2018

“In the year since (announcing the cancer), John has surpassed expectations for his survival. But the progress of disease and the inexorable advance of age render their verdict. With his usual strength of will, he has now chosen to discontinue medical treatment,” the statement read.

“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.”

Read more: John McCain diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer

The former presidential nominee, and once a prisoner of war, initially announced news of his cancer in July last year.

The tumour was discovered through tissue analysis after the senator had a blood clot removed from his eye.

Since the statement was released a number of family members have shared their own personal messages with the public via Twitter, highlighting their love for McCain and thanking others for their support throughout his cancer journey.

My family is deeply appreciative of all the love and generosity you have shown us during this past year. Thank you for all your continued support and prayers. We could not have made it this far without you – you've given us strength to carry on. pic.twitter.com/KuAQSASoa7

— Meghan McCain (@MeghanMcCain) August 24, 2018

“My family is deeply appreciative of all the love and generosity you have shown us during this past year. Thank you for all your continued support and prayers. We could not have made it this far without you – you’ve given us strength to carry on,” daughter Meghan McCain wrote.

While Cindy added: “I love my husband with all of my heart. God bless everyone who has cared for my husband along this journey”.

The messages spread far and wide across social media with musician Sheryl Crow also sending her regards to McCain and his family.

“Thank you, @SenJohnMcCain, for serving our country in such an elegant way. Our thoughts and prayers are with you,” she posted on Twitter.

Thank you, @SenJohnMcCain, for serving our country in such an elegant way. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. 🙏🏻❤️

— Sheryl Crow (@SherylCrow) August 24, 2018

Have you dealt with a cancer diagnosis in your family. How did you deal with the news?