Former Rep. Joe Crowley opens up about son’s cancer battle

Former Rep. Joe Crowley (D-N.Y.) opened up about his son’s cancer battle in a series of social media posts Thursday, saying his son should have a “fighting chance” after his most recent surgery.

Crowley detailed how his son, Cullen, was diagnosed with a desmoplastic small round cell tumor — a type of soft tissue sarcoma that is found in the abdomen and pelvic areas of the body — in December. He said his family has “struggled” with the cancer diagnosis, which came shortly after Cullen graduated from the Naval Academy in May 2022.

The former congressman said his son underwent “successful” surgery Wednesday to remove tumors from his kidney and abdomen.

“Yesterday, Cullen underwent 15 hrs of surgery to remove cancer tumors on his right kidney and in his abdomen,” he posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “He stayed strong throughout — just as he has since his diagnosis. He’s a Marine after all.”

“Though the cancer has metastasized to his skeletal system, this successful surgery is a blessing and gives him a fighting chance. He is recovering and doing well,” he added.

Crowley also thanked the doctors and those showing their support to Cullen.

“We are so grateful to his wonderful team of doctors and nurses,” Crowley said. “And we are so grateful to all our family and friends here and around the world (especially in Montana and Ireland!) for their support. We would be lost without you all!”

Crowley served in the House for two decades before being defeated in the 2018 Democratic primary by now-Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.).

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