Gary Sinise recently told the heartbreaking and uplifting story of his son, McCanna Anthony Sinise, who died from Chordoma in his thirties. His example of endurance and musical talent continues to inspire.In a poignant memorial on the Gary Sinise Foundation website, beloved “CSI” star Gary Sinise shared details about the heartbreaking loss of his son, McCanna Anthony “Mac” Sinise.
McCanna died at the age of 33 on January 5th, following a heroic struggle with Chordoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.McCanna’s journey was characterized by bravery, talent, and persistent determination. He acquired his interest for music at a young age and had already become an exceptional drummer by the age of 9. His musical abilities earned him a slot at the famous USC Music School, paving the way for a promising career in composition and performance.
Despite facing serious health issues in recent years, McCanna continued to inspire everyone around him with his passion for music and ability to find joy and purpose in the face of hardship. Unfortunately, in August 2018, the Sinise family’s world was flipped upside down when McCanna was diagnosed with Chordoma.
Despite having surgery in September 2018 to remove the initial tumor and another spine procedure in February 2019, the late musician’s cancer reappeared and spread. This was the beginning of a tough 5 ½ struggle. Throughout this time, McCanna’s tenacity and determination shined clearly. He continued to visit his father’s foundation office. However, he had a third spine procedure in November of the same year.
Despite his struggles, McCanna continued to share his musical talents on YouTube, impacting many people’s lives with his songs and performances. More than merely an inspiration to others, music was a lifeline for McCanna. In December 2023, his father gave an interview to Fox News on how the creative medium “rejuvenated” McCanna’s spirit and allowed him to find a part of himself that he thought was lost.
The network also showed moving images of the composer in a wheelchair, working on music production, and seeing an orchestra perform a piece he co-wrote.Reflecting on this, the interviewer, Raymond Arroyo, stated, “Despite the physical difficulties, Mac stayed on mission, doing what he had been called to do.” Gary responded by saying, “That’s what’s so inspirational about it, uh, is that seeing him come alive again and rediscover something that he thought was kind of a part of his past.”
Gary and his family took McCanna to the emergency room on December 30, one day after his interview with Raymond, for what would be his final hospital visit. The late artist was having difficulties breathing, but medical personnel were able to stabilize him. For the first several days after his admission, McCanna was overjoyed and freely shared his songs with hospital workers. However, events took a nasty turn. McCanna’s long fight with Chordoma ended in early January, surrounded by his family.
In his tribute, Gary reflected on the valuable time he and his family spent with McCanna, emphasizing the young talent’s great resilience and motivation for his family and friends. “We were blessed to have you in our lives as son, brother, and friend…and we will miss you and love you for eternity,” he said.
He went on to say, “While our hearts ache from missing him, we are comforted in knowing that Mac is no longer struggling.” Gary Sinise’s poignant dedication to his son demonstrates how much he was loved by his family and friends, as well as the tremendous legacy McCanna has left behind.
