House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) revealed he has been diagnosed with a “very treatable” blood cancer.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the top House Republican wrote, “After a few days of not feeling like myself this past week, I had some blood work done. The results uncovered some irregularities and after undergoing additional tests, I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a very treatable blood cancer.”
“I have now begun treatment, which will continue for the next several months. I expect to work through this period and intend to return to Washington, continuing my work as Majority Leader and serving the people of Louisiana’s First Congressional District,” he continued.
Finally, Scalise said, “I am incredibly grateful we were able to detect this early and that this cancer is treatable. I am thankful for my excellent medical team, and with the help of God, support of my family, friends, colleagues, and constituents, I will tackle this with the same strength and energy as I have tackled past challenges.”
After a few days of not feeling like myself this past week, I had some blood work done. The results uncovered some irregularities and after undergoing additional tests, I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a very treatable blood cancer.
— Steve Scalise (@SteveScalise) August 29, 2023
I have now begun treatment, which will…
Scalise’s news led to an outpouring of support from other lawmakers.
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) wrote, “Heidi and I will keep you and your family in our prayers, that the ‘God of all comfort who comforts us in all our affliction’ will be with you during this challenging time.”
Heidi and I will keep you and your family in our prayers, that the “God of all comfort who comforts us in all our affliction” will be with you during this challenging time. https://t.co/KkNRCGE6OC
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) August 29, 2023
“Cancer doesn’t stand a chance if a bullet couldn’t stop Steve Scalise. His life is a living testimony of God’s favor, and Erika and I pray for more of God’s mercy during this battle. Steve, get well soon!” wrote Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.).
Cancer doesn't stand a chance if a bullet couldn't stop Steve Scalise. His life is a living testimony of God's favor, and Erika and I pray for more of God's mercy during this battle.
— Congressman Byron Donalds (@RepDonaldsPress) August 29, 2023
Steve, get well soon! https://t.co/9UBi1viozS
House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) chimed in, “My friend [Scalise] has always been a fighter and I know cancer doesn’t stand a chance. Leader Scalise and his family are in my prayers and this entire Congress stands behind him as he begins treatment.”
My friend @SteveScalise has always been a fighter and I know cancer doesn’t stand a chance. Leader Scalise and his family are in my prayers and this entire Congress stands behind him as he begins treatment. https://t.co/q5CBJpV370
— Rep. James Comer (@RepJamesComer) August 29, 2023
“If anyone can beat cancer, it’s my friend [Steve Scalise]. America is praying for you!” said Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas).
If anyone can beat cancer, it’s my friend @SteveScalise.
— Monica De La Cruz (@monica4congress) August 29, 2023
America is praying for you! ???? https://t.co/6tZ9xkX2GQ
Scalise’s post comes six years after he was shot during a practice for the annual Congressional Baseball Game in 2017.
