Former U.S. Rep. Mia Love is confronting the terminal stage of her glioblastoma, with her treatments no longer yielding results, according to an announcement by her daughter, Abigale.
Love, known for her trailblazing role as the first Black Republican woman and first Black Congressional member from Utah, is now dedicating her time to family, as Fox News reports.
In 2022, Love began experiencing severe headaches that spurred medical examinations, which revealed her glioblastoma diagnosis.
It wasn't until August 2023 that she disclosed her battle with brain cancer to the public. Her initial approach involved a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy in an effort to tackle the disease aggressively.
Love made headlines when she was elected to the U.S. Congress in 2014. Her election marked a significant milestone as she became the first Black Republican woman in the legislature, representing Utah's Fourth Congressional District.
Notably, she contributed to the Financial Services Committee and was actively involved with the Congressional Black Caucus during her tenure.
Despite her impactful service, Love faced defeat in the 2018 elections. Nevertheless, her influence had already carved out her place in political history.
Abigale Love recently shared the heartbreaking update about her mother's health status. She revealed, "Sadly her cancer is no longer responding to treatment and the cancer is progressing. We have shifted our focus from treatment to enjoying our remaining time with her." This has led the family to redirect their energies towards spending treasured moments together.
Love's approach to her health journey reflects a blend of faith and science. Having converted from Catholicism to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she found comfort in her belief system alongside medical strategies.
Despite these challenges, Love has remained politically active, publicly denouncing political violence and continuing to show support for leaders like President Donald Trump and other political figures. "Political violence is despicable," she stated. "If you find yourself supporting or wishing for violence, know you are wrong. May we recommit to civility, reasonable discourse, and proper civil engagement over anger and hatred," she urged.
Love's journey has inspired many, including Utah's prominent leaders. Sen. Mike Lee expressed his sentiments, calling Love a "dear friend," and extending prayers to her family during this challenging time. Similarly, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox recognized Love's integrity: "Mia Love has served Utah with integrity, and her strength and grace continue to inspire us. Our hearts are with Mia and her family during this difficult time."
Love has drawn strength from various avenues, affirming in a May statement, "These past few years have not been easy, but I have found strength and solace in my faith and constant support and love in my family. Together, they have given me hope! Whatever challenges you are facing now, keep fighting and know that there is hope." Her words serve as a comforting reminder of resilience and the importance of familial bonds and faith in difficult times.
As the Love family navigates this transformative period, they remain surrounded by an outpouring of support and admiration. The nation watches with compassion as Mia Love, once a groundbreaking political figure, faces an intensely personal battle with grace and courage.
