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House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) announced Tuesday that he had been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer.

Scalise, 57, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he had gotten blood work done after “a few days of not feeling like myself this past week” and undergone additional tests after “some irregularities were found.”

“I have now begun treatment, which will continue for the next several months,” added Scalise, who has been in Congress since 2008. “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.”

“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.”

Scalise nearly died in June 2017 after he was shot by a left-wing fanatic while practicing for the annual Congressional Baseball Game in Alexandria, Va.


  House Majority Leader Steve Scalise announced that he has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo House Majority Leader Steve Scalise announced that he has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo

He returned to the House of Representatives that September.

Well-wishes quickly poured in Tuesday for Scalise, the second-ranking House Republican after Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.)

“.@SteveScalise is a dear friend, and anyone who knows him knows he’s a faith-filled fighter who can overcome any obstacle that stands in his way. I spoke with him today and he’s in good spirits, as nothing—not a gunshot and certainly not cancer—will stop him from accomplishing what he sets his mind to,” McCarthy tweeted.

“@HouseGOP is proud to have the Legend from Louisiana as our Majority Leader. I wish him a speedy treatment as we continue to work together to get our country back on track and keep our Commitment to America.”

“I join with so many others in prayer for @SteveScalise and his family,” tweeted Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.). “The same faith, family support, and internal strength that made Steve such an inspiration to others after he was shot, will bring him through this illness and once more inspire us all.”


  Scalise said he intends to work through his treatment. Michael Brochstein/SOPA Images/Shutterstock Scalise said he intends to work through his treatment. Michael Brochstein/SOPA Images/Shutterstock

  Scalise is the No. 2 House Republican after Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call via ZUMA Press Scalise is the No. 2 House Republican after Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call via ZUMA Press

“There is no stronger fighter than Majority Leader Steve Scalise. Steve is as tough and kind as they come, and he has beaten so many unbeatable odds,” House Republican Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY) said in a statement.

“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.”

“Renee and I are keeping @SteveScalise and the Scalise family in our prayers,” added Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC). “Steve’s faith and strength is undeniable and inspirational, and we stand with you during this fight.”

Congress is currently on its August recess, with the House of Representatives due to reconvene Sept. 12.

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