Sen. John McCain is ending treatment for brain cancer, his family announced in a statement on Friday.
The 81-year-old senator from Arizona and former Republican presidential candidate was diagnosed with cancer in July of last year.
"Last summer, Senator John McCain shared with Americans the news our family already knew: he had been diagnosed with an aggressive glioblastoma, and the prognosis was serious,'' his family wrote. "In the year since, John has surpassed expectations for his survival.
"But the progress of disease and the inexorable advance of age render their verdict. With his usual strength of will, he has now chosen to discontinue medical treatment. Our family is immensely grateful for the support and kindness of all his caregivers over the last year, and for the continuing outpouring of concern and affection from John's many friends and associates, and the many thousands of people who are keeping him in their prayers."
Daughter Meghan McCain also tweeted out her gratitude for the support her father has been shown since his diagnosis.
"My family is deeply appreciative of all the love and generosity you have shown us during this past year,'' she wrote. "Thank you for all your continued support and prayers. We could not have made it this far without you — you've given us strength to carry on."
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