Music Legend Barry Manilow to Undergo a Procedure for Lung Cancer.
The singer has disclosed that he was diagnosed with a cancerous growth in his lung and is set to have surgery.
Cancer Caught Early
The legendary 82-year-old artist, famous for his series of beloved anthems from "Copacabana" cemented his status as one of pop music’s cherished entertainers, will have surgery to take out a section of lung tissue in an effort to treat the condition, which is detected early.
“For those who have been following, I recently suffered from six weeks of bronchitis followed by a relapse of another five weeks.
“Even though I was recovered from the illness and performing again in Las Vegas, my wonderful doctor requested an MRI just to make sure that there were no issues.
“The MRI identified a malignant lesion on my lung that must be removed. It’s incredible chance (and a skilled doctor) that it was caught so early.”
Postponed Performances
He has postponed a number of planned shows, but suggested he would be returning to perform by mid-February for his long-running engagement in Las Vegas.
He added: “The physicians do not believe it has spread and I’m undergoing further tests to confirm their diagnosis. So, that’s it. Chemo is not needed. No radiation. Just rest and recuperation and classic TV.
“I’m eagerly awaiting until I come back to my familiar venue at the Westgate Las Vegas for our special weekend performances.”
Professional and Personal Journey
Manilow is currently in the 16th year of a concert series in Nevada. The singer has been in the limelight and came out as gay in 2017, after wedding his partner of many years, Garry Kief in secret in 2014.
The pair were in a clandestine partnership for over 35 years. Last year, Manilow discussed how important his husband had been to him during his rise to peak fame in the 1970s.
“When my fame skyrocketed, it was just hectic. And, you know, going back to an lonesome hotel suite, you can find yourself in a lot of difficulty if you, you know, you’re alone evening after evening,” he said.
“But I met Garry right around when it was exploding. And I didn’t have to go back to those empty hotel rooms. I had a partner to share sorrows with or to enjoy success with.
“I wish that newcomers today don’t have to go back to those suites by themselves, because you might succumb to pitfalls. I never did. But it was quite isolating until I met Garry. And then it was fun.”