It's confirmed: Rob Ford, the controversial mayor of Toronto, has abdominal cancer.
Mount Sinai Hospital's colorectal surgeon Dr. Zane Cohen relayed the news last Wednesday, September 16, 2014. According to the doctor, Mayor Ford was diagnosed with malignant pleomorphic liposarcoma, a rare type of cancer that affects connective tissues. They tend to appear like fat cells. Although it can occur in various parts of the body, it normally happens in the cavity of the abdomen, as in the case of the mayor. It is described as aggressive and difficult to treat, although the hospital doctors remain optimistic.
Mayor Ford will begin the treatment right away. Since the tumor is already big, measuring more than 3 inches, the doctors need to shrink it first with chemotherapy. Depending on how Ford's body responds, they will then decide whether to proceed with surgery or add radiation to the treatment plan.
Last Thursday, September 18, the mayor released an audio recording, thanking the people of the city for their support and concern. The audio, which was recorded before he began his first chemotherapy treatment, also mentioned that the mayor wanted to concentrate on being healthier and better.
On September 10, 2014, Mayor Rob Ford was rushed by his family to Humber River Hospital after complaining of severe abdominal pain. He was later transferred to Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, which later confirmed that the source was a malignant abdominal mass.
Mayor Rob Ford is one of the most controversial politicians of Toronto. Prior to his diagnosis, he sent himself to rehab for drug and alcohol addiction. He also mentioned in his previous interviews that he had already tried every drug possible such as marijuana and crack cocaine.
He had already withdrawn from the mayoral race, allowing his brother Doug to take his place. Instead, he will be running for a council seat in Ward 2.