Toby Keith, the popular country music star, recently shared some saddening news with his fans. The Oklahoma-born musician revealed that he is currently battling stomach cancer, which he was diagnosed with in the fall of 2021. He has been receiving treatment for the condition ever since.
In a statement through his social media platforms, Keith shared details of his experience, saying, “I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation, and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax.” Despite his health battles, Keith was quick to give a shout-out to fans who know and love him, saying, “I am looking forward to spending time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait. -T.”
As of now, it is unclear what the status of Keith’s scheduled performances for the remaining months of this year would be. However, according to his website, his next concert will take place on June 17 in Wheaton, Illinois. Some of Keith’s tour dates will be canceled, according to his publicist, Elaine Schock, though she did not specify how many.
Despite the challenges he faces, Toby Keith remains a prominent figure in the music industry. In 2021, Keith was awarded the “National Medal of Arts,” which the National Endowment for the Arts describes as “the highest award given to artists and arts patrons by the United States government.”
Toby Keith has been a well-known musician for many years, having released his debut album in 1993. He is known for hits such as “Red Solo Cup” and “I Wanna Talk About Me.” His 2002 song “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue (The Angry American)” was released in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, which made him a household name.
Keith has put on hundreds of shows for American service members stationed overseas, including those serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. He has also played at events hosted by Presidents Donald Trump, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush. Toby Keith has been a humanitarian for many years, completing 11 USO tours to date, and has 32 #1 singles.
In 2006, Keith founded the Toby Keith Foundation to provide support for children with cancer. In 2014, the foundation opened “OK Kids Korral,” which is, according to its website, a cost-free, convenient, and comfortable home for pediatric cancer patients receiving treatment.
It is clear that Toby Keith’s contributions to the music industry and his advocacy for cancer patients have made him an inspiration to many. Fans will no doubt continue to support him throughout his battle with cancer and beyond. Although it may be some time before he is able to resume performing, his unwavering positivity and dedication to his fans make it clear that Toby Keith’s influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.