House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) was hospitalized in serious condition on June 14, 2017 after being shot while practicing for a congressional baseball game. On July 6, 2017, it was revealed that Scalise had been diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Scalise underwent surgery to repair his internal injuries caused by the shooting and several rounds of intensive chemotherapy following his diagnosis. His doctors reported that Scalise was expected to make a full recovery. As of August 22, 2018, Scalise was in good condition and was back at work.
Scalise’s diagnosis and treatment highlights the importance of access to quality healthcare. Following his diagnosis, Scalise publicly spoke out in favor of protecting the Affordable Care Act and preserving protections for Americans with pre-existing conditions.
