House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) revealed on Tuesday that he is confronting multiple myeloma, a rare form of blood cancer that occurs in plasma cells. The 57-year-old Republican lawmaker shared his diagnosis on X, informing his supporters of his ongoing treatment journey.
In his post, Scalise candidly recounted, “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.”
Demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his role, Scalise wrote further, “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.”
In a spirit of gratitude and resilience, Scalise added that he finds solace in detecting the condition early and knowing that it can be managed.
“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,” he concluded.
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…
— Steve Scalise (@SteveScalise) August 29, 2023
A seasoned statesman, Scalise was elected to the House in 2008, following an illustrious tenure in the Louisiana State Legislature spanning over a decade.
Upon sharing his cancer diagnosis, Scalise was graced with an outpouring of support from his Republican peers.
House Republican Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY) affirmed Scalise’s strength, stating, “There is no stronger fighter than [Scalise]. Steve is as tough and kind as they come, and he has beaten so many unbeatable odds.”
“The Legend from Louisiana is beloved by his colleagues and America and we know he will fight this next battle with that same resolve. We are proud to stand by to support Steve and his family as they embrace strength and faith in this next challenge,” Stefanik wrote further.
There is no stronger fighter than @SteveScalise. Steve is as tough and kind as they come, and he has beaten so many unbeatable odds. The Legend from Louisiana is beloved by his colleagues and America and we know he will fight this next battle with that same resolve. We are proud… https://t.co/ETfDGeSMVT
— Elise Stefanik (@EliseStefanik) August 29, 2023
Recognizing Scalise’s fighting spirit and referring to his 2017 shooting during a congressional baseball practice, Rep. Bryon Donalds (R-FL) maintained that “cancer doesn’t stand a chance if a bullet couldn’t stop Steve Scalise.”
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! https://t.co/9UBi1viozS
— Congressman Byron Donalds (@RepDonaldsPress) August 29, 2023
Not only did the congressman recover, but he went on to continue his service in Congress and even participated in future Congressional Baseball Games.
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! https://t.co/9UBi1viozS
— Congressman Byron Donalds (@RepDonaldsPress) August 29, 2023
