News of Jack Layton's death is proving to be particularly difficult for the millions of Canadians who have their own battles with cancer. It was only a few weeks ago Layton revealed he was fighting a second bout of cancer that required treatment. He had gone public with his prostate cancer diagnosis early last year.
Layton did not reveal what new form of cancer he was fighting. In July, Layton stunned many with his gaunt appearance and hoarse voice, when he made the announcement at news conference in Toronto.
He told media at that time he had been experiencing pain in the closing days of the last parliamentary session.
On Monday, his wife released a letter Layton wrote to be shared with Canadians after his death, where he thanks those who wished him well during his battle.
"Tens of thousands of Canadians have written to me in recent weeks to wish me well. I want to thank each and every one of you for your thoughtful, inspiring and often beautiful notes, cards and gifts. Your spirit and love have lit up my home, my spirit, and my determination."
Layton also addresses Canadians who are on their own journey to defeat cancer.
"Please don't be discouraged that my own journey hasn't gone as well as I had hoped. You must not lose your own hope. Treatments and therapies have never been better in the face of this disease. You have every reason to be optimistic, determined, and focused on the future. My only other advice is to cherish every moment with those you love at every stage of your journey, as I have done this summer."
His message spoke to many, including cancer survivor Michelle Fuller.
"He was completely unselfish. I think that somewhere in him he saw a greater good for Canada and a greater good for humanity. In a moment where he's letting go of life, he's thinking not about himself and his own great. He's thinking about other people. He had such compassion," she said.
Fuller lost her eye, cheekbone and sinus cavity to cancer 12 years ago. She endured eight months of chemotherapy and radiation. Now, she's cancer free, but still lives with the aftermath of reconstructive surgery.
"It felt almost like I lost everything and I had to redefine my life."
Oncologist Dr. Paul Grundy says witnessing a public figure lose the fight can have a devastating impact on others with cancer.
"Does shake the foundation for everybody who is right now also in their fight against cancer."
Grundy says when an individual is fighting cancer, hope is vital.
"I think Jack Layton was a fantastic example of somebody who had that strong hope, held onto it, showed it to people -- really was a leader even in having cancer in radiating that hope."
Layton leaves behind his wife, Olivia Chow, and two children, Sarah and Michael Layton. He was 61-years-old.
With files from Laura Tupper
