Gary Sinise pays tribute to his late son McCanna Anthony “Mac” Sinise, who passed away on January 5 from chordoma, a rare form of cancer, at the age of 33.
The renowned actor, known for his memorable performances in “Forrest Gump,” “Apollo 13,” “The Green Mile,” and “CSI NY,” shared a poignant photo of his son on Instagram on Tuesday. Overlaying the image was text commemorating Mac’s life, reading, “In Honor & Memory of McCanna ‘Mac’ Sinise 1990-2024.”
In the caption, the “Of Mice and Men” star directed his followers to the Gary Sinise Foundation website to read his heartfelt tribute to Mac, further extending the reach of his poignant message.
“Like any family experiencing such a loss, we are heartbroken and have been managing as best we can,” he wrote in the tribute. “As parents, it is so difficult losing a child.”
“My heart goes out to all who have suffered a similar loss, and to anyone who has lost a loved one. We’ve all experienced it in some way. Over the years I have met so many families of our fallen heroes. It’s heartbreaking, and it’s just damn hard.”
He noted that his son’s battle with cancer lasted five and a half years, adding that
“it became more and more challenging as time went on.”
More Revelation About The Diagnosis
The actor revealed that his son was diagnosed in 2018, the same year his wife Moira Harris was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. However, after months of treatment, she is now cancer-free, bringing a ray of hope amid their family’s struggles.
“While our hearts ache at missing him, we are comforted in knowing that Mac is no longer struggling, and inspired and moved by how he managed it,” he continued. “He fought an uphill battle against a cancer that has no cure, but he never quit trying.”
“I am so blessed, fortunate, and proud to be his dad,” he added.
Chordoma, characterized as a slow-growing cancer originating from tissue within the spine, is a rare condition, affecting 1 in 1 million people worldwide annually, as per the National Cancer Institute.
Also referred to as notochordal sarcoma, it typically manifests near the tailbone, known as a sacral tumor, or at the junction of the spine and skull, termed a clival tumor.
The National Cancer Institute notes that the average survival rate post-diagnosis is approximately 10 years, contingent upon the tumor’s location and the extent to which it can be surgically removed.
Gary Sinise: The Father Paying Tribute
In his recent tribute, Gary Sinise fondly recalled Mac Sinise’s vibrant spirit, highlighting his active involvement in the foundation Gary established.
The foundation aims to aid defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need, as outlined on its website. Mac’s love for music was also celebrated, as he completed a full album titled “Mac Sinise: Resurrection and Revival” before his passing.
Gary expressed his desire that sharing their family’s journey, would illuminate a glimmer of hope during their challenging times. He emphasized Mac’s role as a beacon of light, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.
“An incredible inspiration to those who knew and loved him, he faced his battle with grace, courage, and love,” he continued. “Even with one setback after another, he never stopped living and learning, creating, and giving, and loving.”
Gary Sinise concluded his heartfelt message to his son by expressing profound gratitude for Mac’s presence in their lives as a cherished son, brother, and friend, affirming eternal love and remembrance.
Beyond Mac, Gary Sinise is also a devoted father to his two daughters, Sophie and Ella, forming a loving family unit bound by enduring affection and support.