Former Toronto Mayor Rob Ford is dead today, Tuesday March 22, after a heroic battle with a rare form of stomach cancer. Ford leaves behind his wife Renata, and their two children Stephanie and Douglas.
The well-known Canadian politician was well-liked by his constituents, however his political career was plagued with controversy – just as Ford seemed to be repairing his reputation and winning back support, he was diagnosed with cancer in 2014.
Rob Ford kicked off his political career in 2000, when he was elected as city councilor – he served three terms before he announced that he was running for Toronto Mayor and was elected in 2010. Ford won over the people of Toronto by reducing government expenses and taxes, and promoting “respect for taxpayers.”
In 2014 Rob Ford made national headlines after a tabloid scandal emerged – and there were videos of him smoking crack cocaine. After denying the claims, Ford finally admitted that he had substance abuse issues, and the video was probably made during one of his “drunken stupors.”
After a stint in rehab, Rob Ford began working to reclaim his reputation and planned on running for mayor again, however his campaign was sidelined by a cancer diagnosis.
Since 2014 Ford has been battling the rare stomach cancer, and undergoing treatments. Earlier this year the 46 year old politician and father of two joined a new trial treatment for the cancer – but sadly he lost his battle.
When news broke of Rob Ford’s death, the residents of Toronto were heartbroken. Rob Ford’s friends, fellow politicians, and even celebs took to social media to share their sadness and offer condolences to Rob’s family.
