Laval Mayor Gives Thumbs Up After Extensive Brain Surgery

Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer has declared his recent brain surgery a success, following a 13-hour operation to remove a golf ball-sized tumor. The 38-year-old mayor posted an update on social media from his hospital bed, showing a thumbs-up despite his bandaged head and swollen face, stating, "I look like a boxer who has lost his match. But it is quite the contrary."

Boyer, who has led Quebec's third-largest city since 2021, revealed his diagnosis on September 7th after months of headaches and vision issues. An MRI scan had uncovered the tumor situated between his eye and brain. He openly discussed the risks associated with the procedure, including paralysis and vision loss, but expressed confidence in a full recovery.

During his recovery, which is projected to take at least two months, Ray Khalil, the vice-chair of the city's executive committee, will serve as interim mayor. Boyer looks forward to returning to his duties, particularly discussions on public finances and water systems.