Statement from NCI Director Dr. Norman E. Sharpless on the Death of Senator John McCain

The passing of Senator John McCain is a moment of true sadness for our country. Few have served this country for so long and with such commitment and distinction.

Even as he underwent treatment for an aggressive brain cancer, Sen. McCain continued to play an active role in Congress—something that comes as no surprise, given his lifelong legacy of dedication and service.

Shortly after his diagnosis in July 2017, Sen. McCain received treatment at the NIH Clinical Center, under the care of NCI physicians and nurses. In November of last year, in a kind and gracious speech on the Senate floor, he thanked those at NCI who directly provided that care.

During that speech, he also took the time to thank all of those engaged in cancer research and care, hailing what he called the “patient forms of bravery exemplified by our doctors and nurses and research scientists.”

To be called brave by a courageous and upstanding man like Sen. McCain is very high praise.

Sen. McCain, and his upholding of the ideals of commitment to a greater good, will be dearly missed. His family will continue to be in the thoughts of NCI staff, just as they are among those of millions of Americans across the country.