Rep. Jim McGovern introduced Thursday that his cancer-stricken 23-year-old daughter died “unexpectedly” whereas on a visit to Italy.
Molly McGovern, the Massachusetts Democratic congressman’s solely daughter, had been visiting an in depth good friend and his household after finishing a examine overseas stint in Australia, her household mentioned in an announcement.
McGovern, his spouse, Lisa, and their son, Patrick, didn’t reveal Molly’s reason behind loss of life, however famous that she had battled a uncommon type of most cancers.
“Even as she faced a rare cancer diagnosis, she did so with relentless courage, optimism, and tenacity —refusing to let her illness slow her down,” they mentioned.
They described Molly because the “soul of our family” and mentioned that she “radiated pure joy.”
“She lit up every room with her beaming smile — full of laughter, endless warmth, and a sharp wit that could disarm you in an instant. She was unbelievably funny, fiercely loyal, and wise beyond her years,” the assertion mentioned.
“Molly had a rare gift: She made everyone feel special, because she genuinely believed everyone was special. She treated people with compassion and kindness — always standing up for the underdog, and making fast friends wherever she went.”
The household additionally famous that Molly was a diehard fan of the Boston Bruins.
“But it was no match for the love she gave so freely to her family and friends,” the household mentioned. “If you ever met Molly, you carried a piece of her light with you. She had that kind of effect on people.”
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey was amongst those that supplied condolences to the McGovern household, saying she was “heartbroken” by the information.
“Molly was a light in her family’s lives and the lives of so many. She was a kind, smart and compassionate young woman who touched the lives of many,” Healey mentioned in an announcement.
“We are all feeling the sadness of her being taken too soon. Joanna and I are sending all of our love and support to Congressman McGovern, Lisa, Patrick and all of their loved ones during this difficult time.”
McGovern, the highest Democrat on the highly effective Home Guidelines Committee, has represented the Bay State in Congress since 1997, serving the Worcester-anchored 2nd Congressional District since 2013.
