How a Brain Tumor Changed the Course of a Politician's Life

Glioblastoma is a type of brain cancer that has no known cure. This cancer is known for its rapid growth and ability to return even after treatment. It is a fast-growing tumor that starts from glial cells, which are responsible for protecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Doctors can use surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy to slow down the tumor's growth. But even with these treatments, some cancer cells often remain and continue to multiply. People diagnosed with glioblastoma usually have a short time to live. On average, they have about 15 to 18 months left, with only a small chance of surviving five years. This cancer can affect anyone, but it is more common in older adults. The average age at diagnosis is 64. It is a rare cancer, with about 13, 000 new cases each year in the United States. More than 10, 000 people in the U. S. die from it every year. It is the same type of brain cancer that took the lives of Beau Biden, the son of former President Joe Biden, and Senator John McCain. Mia Love was a politician who had to face this aggressive cancer. She was a congresswoman from Utah, serving from 2015 to 2019. Before that, she was the mayor of Saratoga Springs, Utah. Love was born to Haitian immigrants and made history as the first Black Republican woman elected to the U. S. House. Her political journey started in 2003 when she won a seat on the city council. She later became the city's mayor and gained national attention after speaking at the 2012 Republican National Convention. Love's political career had its ups and downs. She was seen as a rising star in the GOP but faced challenges, especially during President Donald Trump's time in office. Love kept her distance from Trump and criticized him for his comments about immigrants. In 2018, she lost her re-election bid as Democrats made significant gains. Love's battle with glioblastoma began in 2022. She discovered the tumor during a family vacation when she experienced a severe headache. Doctors found a tumor in her brain and removed about 95% of it through surgery. Unfortunately, the tumor was cancerous and likely to spread. Love joined a clinical trial at Duke University, using her immune system to fight the tumor. Initially, the treatment worked, but eventually, the tumor stopped responding. Love's daughter shared that she was no longer responding to treatment. Love passed away at her home in Saratoga Springs, Utah, at the age of 49. Her death brought attention to the aggressive nature of glioblastoma and the need for better treatments. Love's story is a reminder of the challenges faced by those battling this aggressive cancer. Her journey highlights the importance of medical research and the impact of supportive care on patients' lives.