Dr Feelgood's Wilko Johnson Diagnosed With Terminal Cancer
Wednesday, 09 January 2013
Written by Elliott Batte
Former Dr Feelgood guitarist turned solo artist Wilko Johnson has reportedly been diagnosed with terminal cancer and has chosen not to undertake chemotherapy, vowing to rock on for as long as possible and 'party where he can'.
The news was printed in the Southend Echo earlier today, and has seen a lot of fans posting about the sad news on social networks.
65-year-old Johnson was forced to pull out of a sold-out homecoming gig last minute back in November, after falling ill and being rushed to hospital in Southend. He was soon released, however doctors were required to perform a number of tests on him with results delivering the worst possible diagnosis of untreatable pancreatic cancer earlier this month.
Wilko's manager, Robert Hoy, who broke the news to fans, released a statement earlier today:
"I am very sad to announce that Wilko has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer of the pancreas. He has chosen not to receive any chemotherapy.
He is currently in good spirits, is not yet suffering any physical effects and can expect to enjoy at least another few months of reasonable health and activity.
He has just set off on a trip to Japan; on his return we plan to complete a new CD, make a short tour of France, then give a series of farewell gigs in the UK. There is also a live DVD in the pipeline, filmed on the last UK tour.
Wilko wishes to offer his sincere thanks for all the support he has had over his long career, from those who have worked with him to, above all, those devoted fans and admirers who have attended his live gigs, bought his recordings and generally made his life such an extraordinarily full and eventful experience. Thank you."
Twitter is beginning to fill up with posts from fans, with Aaron Watson saying that it was ‘sad news’ and that he’d seen him perform recently - describing the gig as ‘compelling’. Another fan, Gillian Hardy, said he was ‘a legend and criminally underrated guitar player’.
Stereoboard send all our best wishes to Johnson and his family - it is truly sad news. Johnson is set to appear in Tokyo tomorrow (Thursday January 10th) and it looks like he’s not letting his illness get in the way of the show, in true rock and roll style.
What do you think of the news - are you a fan? Let us know in the comment section below.
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