McCain undergoes surgery

Senator stable following treatment for infection

Sen. John McCain is in stable condition after undergoing surgery for an intestinal infection related to diverticulitis, his family and Senate office said Monday.

McCain, 81, who is battling a deadly form of brain cancer, has been in Arizona since Dec. 17.

His family offered hopeful messages Monday.

Cindy McCain, McCain’s wife, said on Twitter that McCain was “doing well after his surgery” and that they were “looking forward to getting back to Hidden Valley,” the family’s property in Cornville, near Sedona.

Meghan McCain, the couple’s daughter, tweeted that McCain “is in stable condition — he continues to inspire me everyday with his intense grit and determination. Thank you to the doctors at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix and to everyone who is praying for him.”

Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Arizona, said he had discussed McCain’s condition with Cindy McCain and said, “I look forward to seeing him again.”

Diverticulitis is an intestinal condition in which pouches form to obstruct the colon wall. It can bring on pain and nausea and, in severe cases, requires surgery, according to information from the Mayo Clinic.

While his family and colleague offered relatively upbeat assessments, McCain’s office issued its first official update on the six-term Arizona Republican’s health since last year: “On Sunday, Senator McCain was admitted to Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona, and underwent surgery to treat an intestinal infection related to diverticulitis. He is in stable condition.

“Over the last few months, Senator McCain has been participating in physical therapy at his home in Cornville, Arizona, as he recovers from the side effects of cancer treatment. He has remained engaged on his work as Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and has enjoyed frequent visits from his family, friends, staff and Senate colleagues.

“Senator McCain and his family are grateful to the senator’s excellent care team, and appreciate the support and prayers they continue to receive from people all over the country.”

McCain disclosed in July that he had been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Since then, he has battled other health issues. In November, his office reported at the time that the senator had suffered a minor tear in his right Achilles tendon, leading him to wear a walking cast.

He also was hospitalized in December for a viral infection and for side effects to his ongoing chemotherapy and radiation treatment.