‘Stronger’ Author & Widow of John McCain, Cindy McCain, Recalls Her Late Husband’s Sense of Humor in New Book

In a promo from the book, McCain writes, “My husband, John McCain, never viewed himself as larger than lifebut he was. He had more tenacity and resolve than anybody I ever met. Being with him didn't hold me backit gave me flight, a courage I never would have felt on my own.”

McCain writes in the book about her husband’s sense of humor, and how he loved to play practical jokes. She posted recently on Instagram: “John always enjoyed making us laughhe once picked up Meghan from middle school in a Wienermobile as practical joke! (#STRONGERBOOK)”

Big news! My new book, Stronger, publishes April 27, available for preorder today. Link in bio. pic.twitter.com/lgXwBNP3KW

— Cindy McCain (@cindymccain) February 23, 2021

John’s Brain Cancer Battle

Cindy’s husband, Senator John McCain (R-Arizona), was diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM), a type of brain cancer, in 2017. He began treatment in July 2017 and ended his treatment shortly before passing away, in August 2018. GMB is an aggressive primary brain tumor.

Related: 'Live for the Little Things': Meghan McCain Remembers Her Father, John McCain, Who Died of Brain Cancer

Despite its aggressive nature, Duke University Medical Center neuro-oncologist Dr. Henry Friedman says in an earlier interview there is progress being made in the treatment of the disease. Dr. Friedman and his Duke colleagues are investigating a new therapy that combines the modified poliovirus and immunotherapy.

"The modified poliovirus is used to treat this tumor, by injecting it directly into the tumor, through a catheter. It is designed to lyse the tumor and cause the tumor cells to basically break up" says Dr. Friedman. "I think that the modified poliovirus is going to be a game-changer in glioblastoma," explains Dr. Friedman, "but I should also say that its reach is now extending into melanoma soon to bladder cancer."

Could a New Treatment Have Saved John McCain? Fighting Brain Cancer With Electric Fields

Coping with the Loss of a Spouse to Cancer

Losing a loved one to cancer is a difficult, grief-filled process. Many emotions may come up when you’re coping with grief, including anger, overwhelm, depression, and anxiety. Many people find therapy to be a helpful way to cope.

Camila Legaspi lost her mom to breast cancer in high school and credits therapy with helping her. “Therapy saved my life,” says Legaspi in an earlier interview. “I was dealing with some really intense anxiety and depression at that point. It just changed my life, because I was so drained by all the negativity that was going on.”

Related: Dealing With Grief After a Cancer Diagnosis

“Going to a therapist helped me realize that there was still so much out there for me, that I still had my family, that I still had my siblings. The reality is, is when you lose someone, it’s really, really, really hard. And it’s totally OK to talk to someone. And I’m so happy that I talked to my therapist. Keep your chin up, and it’s going to be OK.”

"Therapy Saved My Life": After Losing A Loved One, Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help

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