Def Leppard’s Viv Campbell Diagnosed With Cancer

Legendary Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Campbell is 2 months into a 6-month chemotherapy treatment but intends to keep on touring with the Pour Some Sugar On Me legends over the northern hemisphere summer – what a trooper!

Campbell broke the news via a statement, saying he wanted to let the fans know what was up so they weren’t shocked by his lack of hair when the band goes on tour. The axeman first realised something was wrong when the cough he had just wouldn’t go away:

“After several months of trying every inhaler known to man, my doctor finally had me X-rayed. A CAT scan revealed that enlarged lymph nodes were doing wrestling manoeuvres on my windpipe – hence the cough. What was causing the enlarged lymph nodes, however, was yet to be determined, so I underwent a surgical biopsy on March 11, the first day of Leppard rehearsals for our Viva Las Vegas shows. Obviously, I didn’t make it to rehearsal that day, but it’s okay; I know the songs by now!

He went on to say he’s feeling pretty good, all things considered:

“Hodgkin’s has an over 80% cure rate – so by my reckoning, if you’re going to have a cancer, Hodgie’s is the one to have! The reason I’m sharing this with you is because, despite cancer and chemo, me and my new aerodynamic hairstyle (read: no hair) are going on tour this summer. I don’t want anyone to be so shocked by my new look that they ask for a refund. Simple economics, really.”

As well as Def Leppard, Campbell has played guitar for a host of other bands, including Dio, Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy. Music Feeds wishes Viv a speedy recovery.



(via Metal Hammer)

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