Former “CSI: NY” star Gary Sinise is mourning the loss of his son, McCanna “Mac” Sinise, who passed away at the age of 33 after battling a rare form of cancer.
The Gary Sinise Foundation announced the tragic news on Tuesday on Instagram, with the caption, “In Honor & Memory of McCanna ‘Mac’ Sinise 1990-2024.” In a statement, the foundation revealed that Mac had been diagnosed with a very rare form of cancer called chordoma in 2018, which only affects an average of 300 people in the United States each year.
According to the Gary Sinise Foundation, chordoma is a type of cancer that originates in the spine, and is often difficult to treat. Despite receiving treatment for the past 5 and a half years, Mac sadly passed away on January 5th, 2024 at 3:25 p.m. He was laid to rest on January 23rd, surrounded by his loved ones.
In a touching tribute to his son, Gary Sinise wrote a heartfelt post on his personal website, sharing memories of their close relationship and Mac’s courageous battle. He revealed that in the summer of 2018, their family faced a challenging time.
Sinise’s wife, Moira, was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, and just two months later, Mac was diagnosed with chordoma. Despite the odds, Moira was able to go into remission after receiving treatment, but unfortunately, Mac’s cancer continued to spread.
Sinise shared that his son underwent multiple surgeries and received chemotherapy and radiation, but ultimately became paralyzed from the chest down. Despite this, Mac never gave up and continued to fight until the end. Sinise described him as “the soldier at the end of the extraordinary film ‘1917,’” constantly getting back up and refusing to quit.
Mac was also a talented musician and graduate of USC Thorton School of Music. Though his disability prevented him from playing the drums or piano, he taught himself how to play the harmonica and even recorded a song with Gary’s Lt. Dan Band. Mac’s most recent project was a full album titled “Resurrection & Revival,” which he completed with help from his college friend, composer and arranger Oliver Schnee.
Mac’s album went to press the same week he passed away, making it his final gift to his loved ones. Sinise shared that their family’s story is not unique and that cancer affects everyone in some way. However, he also expressed gratitude to the many people who have helped and supported their family throughout their difficult journey.
He also noted that Mac’s Catholic faith played a significant role in sustaining him during his battle with cancer. In his tribute, Sinise shared Mac’s favorite quote from St. Augustine, “You have made us for yExercisee yourself oh Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” He praised his son for his courage, strength, and love, saying that he will live on in their hearts forever.
Mac is survived by his father, mother, and two sisters, and his memory will be cherished by all those who knew and loved him.
