Former Boston Mayor Thomas Menino Suspending Cancer Treatments

BOSTON (CBS) -- Former Boston Mayor Thomas Menino is suspending his cancer treatments and his book tour, he said in a statement released Thursday.

"Today, I, along with my family, after talking with my medical team, have decided to suspend my book tour as well as my cancer treatments," Menino said in the statement.

"While I continue to fight this terrible disease, I feel it is time for me to spend more time with my family, grandkids, and friends."

The former mayor was back in the hospital last week to be treated for dehydration.

Related: Lawmakers React To Menino's Decision

Doctors told the Boston Globe the cancer was discovered in early February while doctors were examining Menino's back because of chronic weakness in his legs. They did a scan, and discovered that an advanced cancer of unknown origin has metastasized and spread to his liver and lymph nodes.

The former mayor began chemotherapy at Dana Farber in early March.

Menino said Thursday that he also wanted to thank his doctors.

Related: Mayor Menino One-On-One With David Wade

"The medical team at the Brigham and Women's Hospital along with those at the Dana-Farber have been amazing in their care and treatment of me and the many other patients and families that suffer from cancer," he said.

"I am hopeful and optimistic that one day the talented researchers, doctors and medical professionals in this city will find a cure for this awful disease. Angela and I are grateful for the tremendous outpouring of support and kindness shown to our family and ask that everyone keep us in their thoughts and prayers."

The 71-year-old Menino left office after 20 years at the helm of the city. He took a position with Boston University shortly after his term ended.

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