by Danielle Pechette-Graham

Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) was diagnosed with glioblastomas, an aggressive form of brain cancer after pathology was performed following his recent surgery on July 14 to remove a blood clot which was located above his left eye.

Glioblastomas (GBM) are tumors that arise from astrocytes—the star-shaped cells that make up the “glue-like,” or supportive tissue of the brain. These tumors are usually highly malignant (cancerous) because the cells reproduce quickly and they are supported by a large network of blood vessels.  American Brain Tumor Association

McCain and his family are considering different treatment options with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation being the most commonly used method with glioblastomas.

Chemotherapy and radiation will help to slow down the tumor’s growth however due to the numerous different types of cells involved it is very difficult to treat.

According to the American Brain Tumor Association glioblastoma tumors are also especially difficult to remove given the “finger-like tentacles” they commonly form.

Sen. McCain’s office said he was in “good spirits” and that he was “grateful to the doctors and staff at Mayo Clinic for their outstanding care, and is confident that any future treatment will be effective.”  His doctors at the Mayo Clinic who are treating Senator McCain said that he had no neurological problems before or after his recent craniotomy surgery.

As the news of McCain’s diagnosis broke politics and partisanship was put aside as an outpouring of support and encouragement came from all across the political spectrum.

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.

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 20, 2017

Karen & I are praying for @SenJohnMcCain. Cancer picked on the wrong guy. John McCain is a fighter & he'll win this fight too. God bless!

— Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) July 20, 2017

While much of the country has come out to rally around Senator McCain there is one heartfelt statement which truly stands out and it comes directly from his daughter, Meghan McCain. Who better to express the magnitude of this diagnosis and the man it has afflicted.

Statement regarding my father @SenJohnMcCain: pic.twitter.com/SMte9Hkwkq

— Meghan McCain (@MeghanMcCain) July 20, 2017

However, throughout his life, John McCain has always shown great strength and resolve when faced with adversity. This time is no different as his latest comment on Twitter clearly shows. 

I greatly appreciate the outpouring of support – unfortunately for my sparring partners in Congress, I'll be back soon, so stand-by!

— John McCain (@SenJohnMcCain) July 20, 2017