Toby Keith revealed a piece of sad news with fans that he’s been battling stomach cancer for much of the past months. The country superstar took to Instagram to detail his diagnosis that came last fall and how he has spent the past six months “receiving chemo, radiation, and surgery.”
Despite the treatment he’s been undergoing, Keith didn’t slow down! In fact, he released his nineteenth studio album in Peso in My Pocket in the middle of fall last year, the same month he wrapped up his Country Comes to Town Tour.
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For the first half of 2022 – the same months he has been receiving treatment – Keith has made occasional appearances on stage. This includes the sold-out venue at the San Antonio Rodeo in February and at the Heroes Honor Festival in Daytona Beach, Florida, during the Memorial Day weekend. In May, Keith was also present at the 2022 Toby Keith and Friends Golf Classic, which managed to raise more than $1.38 million for charity.
But Now, Toby Keith Is Ready To Take His Much-Needed Break
Still, Toby Keith assured fans that he’s optimistic about his prognosis – he just needs some time to “breathe, recover, and relax.”
Though it was not explicitly stated in the post, his publicist announced that Keith would not be playing upcoming gigs for the time being.
The “I Love This Bar” singer was slated to get back on the road beginning June 17 at Wheaton, Illinois’ Ribfest – which he has been promoting just ten days before announcing his battle with stomach cancer – but it seems like the string of those summer concerts will be canceled. The Ohio State Fair, where he was booked to play, has already announced the cancellation of the show and details on how to refund tickets.
It is not clear how long Keith will need to relax and recuperate, but he assured his loyal followers that this is just temporary. “But I will see the fans sooner than later,” he said. “I can’t wait.”
Here are our warmest wishes for a speedy recovery!
