Tony Snow was off duty Monday to undergo exploratory abdominal surgery. The White House is now reporting that the surgery revealed that Snow’s colon cancer has returned and metastasized into his liver.

Snow had his colon removed in 2005, and White House spokeswoman Dana Perino said this morning that Snow is determined to “beat” cancer again.

Just last week, the White House press secretary was praising Elizabeth Edwards for setting a “good and positive” example for others. “She has been on top of diagnosis and follow-up,” he said. “When you have cancer, it’s very important to keep checking. She’s being aggressive. She’s living an active life. And a positive attitude, prayers, and people you love are always a very good addition to any kind of medicine you have. So for Elizabeth Edwards, good going; our prayers are with you.”