The hearts and minds of the nation have turned to NDP Leader Jack Layton, who this week announced he is facing a serious health challenge — a second battle with cancer.
The NDP leader told a news conference that while he is doing well in his fight with prostate cancer, doctors have discovered a second kind of cancer and he has begun treatment for it.
Layton, 61, announced Monday he is temporarily stepping down as national leader to devote full attention to his health. His appearance on television shocked many viewers. His voice, although still a confident one, was weak, his suit jacket seemed far too big and he looked like he had aged considerably since he was last before the cameras. The change was startling.
It has been an amazing year for the diminutive Member of Parliament. Going into the spring federal election many political pundits suggested the NDP might get caught in a power squeeze of voters having to choose between Tory Leader Stephen Harper and Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff.
Another challenge going into the spring election was the state of Layton’s health. He was dealing with prostate cancer and hip surgery, which resulted in him hitting the hustlings with a decided limp. But there was no limp in his attitude as he stormed across the country rallying his troops and drumming up support among Canadian voters.
Rather than get squeezed out of the political limelight, Layton and his NDP team stormed to a record 103 seats in the House of Commons. They especially caught fire in the province of Quebec, picking up much of the vote which normally went to the Bloc Quebecois.
When Parliament resumed on June 2 there, standing on the floor of the House of Commons, stood a beaming Jack Layton as he was introduced as the leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition. A proud moment for the party, an especially proud moment for Layton who had certainly heard what the naysayers were saying about him and his party.
All of which makes the recent sudden turn of events on the health front seem particularly unfair. Layton has gone from the bottom of the valley to the top of the mountain, and now he is back in the valley again in terms of challenges.
One of Layton’s political adversaries is Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Layton’s health news touched the PM just as it touched all Canadians.
“I salute the courage Mr. Layton continues to show in his fight against cancer, a fight that more and more Canadians are winning. We are all heartened by Jack’s strength and tireless determination, which with Mr. Layton will never be in short supply.”
A small man in statue, but a big man in spirit, Layton boasted, then proved, that his party was one to be reckoned with in the last federal election. And he vows he will get over his latest health hurdle.
“Your support and well wishes are so appreciated. Thank you. I will fight this — and beat it,” he said in a Twitter message late Monday afternoon.
To that end he has the thoughts and prayers of all Canadians behind him.
