Conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh said he’s been diagnosed with advanced lung cancer.Addressing listeners on his program Monday, Limbaugh said he will take some days off for further medical tests and to determine treatment.
Limbaugh called himself the “mayor of Realville” in announcing his illness. He’d been experiencing shortness of breath that he initially thought might be heart-related but turned out to be a pulmonary malignancy.
"So, I have to tell you something today that I wish I didn't have to tell you. It's a struggle for me because I had to inform my staff earlier today," he said. "I can't help but feel that I'm letting everybody down with this. The upshot is that I have been diagnosed with advanced lung cancer."
Limbaugh’s announcement come at a tumultuous political time, as the conclusion of President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial nears.
He started his national radio show in 1988 from New York, later relocating to Palm Beach, Florida.
The hyper-partisan broadcaster has served as a Republican kingmaker through his decades on the radio.
Here are some of the first reactions on Twitter:
I’ve been fortunate enough to get acquainted with #rushlimbaugh and dine with him a couple of times. I’m sending my very best wishes to Rush... cheering you on, hoping and praying you beat this thing!
— Michele Tafoya (@Michele_Tafoya)
February 3, 2020 Just heard the news about Rush Limbaugh, a man who loves this country and his listeners dearly, and is a tireless warrior for things he holds dear. Wishing him strength and tenacity as he takes on this new battle w/advanced lung cancer. Do what you do so well, Rush - FIGHT.
— Megyn Kelly (@megynkelly)
February 3, 2020 Just heard the news about Rush Limbaugh's diagnosis with lung cancer... sending prayers to him, his family, and his show staff for the coming days ahead. God bless you Rush!Psalm 46:1 - "God is our refuge and our strength, a very present help in time of trouble."
— Mark Meadows (@RepMarkMeadows)
February 3, 2020 Sending prayers and well wishes to Rush. https://t.co/CiBWZxHZpW
— Rep. Robert Aderholt (@Robert_Aderholt)
February 3, 2020 I just heard the news that Rush Limbaugh has advanced lung cancer.I’m going to show you how this should be done:I wish Rush a speedy and complete recovery from his cancer.Human being pro-tip: don’t wish cancer on *anyone*...even on your adversaries.
— Rick Wilson (@TheRickWilson)
February 3, 2020 Rush Limbaugh's announcement that he is battling advanced lung cancer is such sad news - I wish him a speedy recovery - will pray for him and his family. Love you Rush!
— Sara A. Carter (@SaraCarterDC)
February 3, 2020 (The Associated Press contributed to this story)
