Former U.S. Representative Mia Love, the first Black woman elected to Congress as a Republican, is facing a worsening prognosis as she battles an aggressive form of brain cancer, according to her daughter.
In a post on her mother’s social media account Saturday, Abigale Love shared that she and their team have made the decision to focus on keeping Mia comfortable and spending time with her during this difficult time.
“Sadly, her cancer is no longer responding to treatment and is progressing,” Abigale Love wrote.
In May, Love shared with the public her diagnosis of glioblastoma (GBM), an aggressive brain cancer, which typically has a survival rate of just 10% beyond five years. During an interview, Love explained that she had started receiving immunotherapy as part of a clinical trial at Duke University’s Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center in August 2023. At that time, doctors had given her a prognosis of 10 to 15 months to live, though she has since surpassed that time frame. Despite the grim diagnosis, Love expressed optimism and credited her Mormon faith for helping her endure.
“I was looking for a cure in my faith and in science,” she said. “Funny thing is, my patriarchal blessing said you will have a long and prosperous life, a rich and rewarding life, so long as you decide to remain in public service.”
At 49, Love served Utah’s 4th Congressional District from 2015 to 2019. After her time in Congress, she became a political commentator and also made appearances as a guest on various talk shows.
In a message shared last year, Love expressed hope to others facing similar struggles. “Whether you are facing a cancer diagnosis yourself or fighting a different battle, there is hope! For me, that hope comes from my faith and my family. Both have been a source of immeasurable strength, peace, love, and support,” she said.
On Saturday, Utah Governor Spencer Cox extended his support to Love and her family, writing on social media, “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. Utah stands with you.”