The Keyboardist from The Cure Announces Their Cancer Diagnosis Publicly
Roger O'Donnell, known as the keyboardist for The Cure, recently disclosed that he's battling a serious illness - a "very rare and aggressive form of lymphoma." In a candid post on Instagram, the musician admitted to disregarding signs of his illness for quite some time. After seeking medical attention, he was hit with the devastating news.
O'Donnell spent the following eleven months under the care of top-notch specialists, receiving treatment and even consulting with teams responsible for developing the drugs used. His journey culminated in radiation therapy, and he's now proud to report that he's "doing well" and the prognosis is "amazing." He jokingly referred to cancer as the "grim reaper" trying to knock on his door, but they chose to ignore it.
September marks "Blood Cancer Awareness Month," a time when blood cancer is brought to the forefront and awareness is raised about the disease and its treatments. O'Donnell believes this is an opportune moment for a dialogue about these illnesses. In 2019, The Cure's former drummer, Andy Anderson, also lost his life due to cancer at the age of 68.
Don't overlook symptoms
O'Donnell implores his fans not to disregard symptoms, like he did, as early detection of cancer significantly improves chances of recovery. He encourages his followers to get tested if they suspect even a hint of health issues.
Furthermore, he urges his audience to reach out to anyone experiencing illness or suffering, as every word of support counts. He wishes to express gratitude towards his doctors, whom he affectionately dubs "real rockstars," alongside the nursing staff, family, and friends. He holds a special place in his heart for his partner Mimi, as he acknowledges the challenges that come with being on the other side.
Music has always been a source of comfort for O'Donnell throughout his journey, providing solace during his toughest times. Despite his illness, he continues to find inspiration in the melodies, creating a new album that reflects his resilience and strength.
