Support pours in after former MP Paul Dewar diagnosed with brain tumour

Former Ottawa Centre MP Paul Dewar is currently undergoing treatment for brain cancer according to his Facebook page.

A CT scan revealed he had a cyst on the right side of his brain in early February according to his post. A follow-up MRIrevealed it was a tumour.

Dewar underwent brain surgery on Feb. 14, and he is currently receiving further treatment, the post said.

"Since I received this diagnosis I have had incredible treatment from smart and caring medical professionals who are completely dedicated to their patients," Dewar said in his post.

"I have also received phenomenal support from my family and friends."

Dewar served as an NDPMP between 2006 and 2015.

Prior to being elected to Parliament he served as an elected member of theOttawa-Carleton Elementary Teachers' Federation. He is the son of former Ottawa mayorMarion Dewar.

Words of support pourin

Speaking at the NDPpolicy convention in Ottawa on Saturday, current NDPMPsHlne Laverdireand Charlie Angus took the stage to wish their former colleague a speedy recovery.

"He has served our party, this city and this nationwith such integrity," Angus said, while choking back tears.

"We are here to pray for him and his family for full recovery, to let him know how much we love him and his family and his work."

If anyone can fight through this, it's Paul.- Catherine McKenna, MP for Ottawa Centre

Laverdireassured the crowd that Dewar would fight for his recovery.

"I know that Paul is a fighter,"Laverdiresaid in French."He can do it, I am sure of that, he can."

Current Ottawa Centre MP Catherine McKenna who is alsoserving as Canada's environment minister echoed those words of support.

"If anyone can fight through this, it's Paul, and he certainly has my support and best wishes," McKenna said.

"He's well-loved by the Ottawa community, and we're all thinking of him during this really difficult time."

Other politicalleaders tweeted their support on Saturday.

In his post, Dewar thanked the Ottawa community for its support, but asked for privacy as he proceeds with treatment.

He encouraged people moved by his diagnosis to reach out and help others in their communities.