Wilko Johnson diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer
Former Dr. Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson has been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer.
Wilko Johnson, 65, has vowed to honor his touring commitments and keep playing as long as he can.
His manager posted a statement on the star’s official Facebook page, adding he had declined chemotherapy.
Manager Robert Hoy said: “He said he wants to make the very best of the time he has left, playing and partying when he can.
“He is currently in good spirits and is not yet suffering any physical effects and can expect to enjoy at least another few months of reasonable health and activity.
“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.”
Former Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson has been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer
Following his diagnosis, Wilko Johnson decided to fly first class to Japan, where he has several scheduled tour dates.
He also intends to complete a new album, a mini French tour and play some farewell gigs in his native Britain.
Wilko Johnson is also planning to release a live DVD, which was filmed on his last UK tour.
His diagnosis in the new year comes after he was forced to cancel a gig in Canvey Island, Essex, in November after falling ill.
Wilko Johnson was known for his unique, choppy guitar style, having learned to play right-handed, despite being left-handed.
He played and wrote with Dr. Feelgood in the mid 1970s, on albums including Down by the Jetty, Malpractice, Stupidity and Sneakin’ Suspicion.
After founding the band Solid Senders in 1977, he went on to join Ian Dury’s The Blockheads in 1980.
In recent years, Wilko Johnson has played a mute executioner in Game Of Thrones.
Wilko Johnson, who lives in his home county of Essex, was left widowed when his wife Irene lost her battle with cancer in 2004.
The couple have a son Simon.