Rock legend Ronnie James Dio has been diagnosed with the early stages of stomach cancer, according to a statement posted on his official site by his wife Wendy Dio.
It was announced last week that the singer, who’s fronted classic hard rock bands, Rainbow and Black Sabbath, as well as his solo band Dio, had canceled his European tour after he was hospitalized.
According to the singer’s wife, who is also his longtime manager, Dio will be starting treatment immediately at the Mayo Clinic.
See below for the official statement regarding Dio’s health.
“Ronnie has been diagnosed with the early stages of stomach cancer. We are starting treatment immediately at the Mayo Clinic. After he kills this dragon, Ronnie will be back on stage, where he belongs, doing what he loves best, performing for his fans.
Thanks to all the friends and fans around the world that have sent well wishes. This has really helped to keep his spirit up.
Long Live Rock and Roll, Long Live Ronnie James Dio”
All of us here at Geeks of Doom wish Ronnie well with his treatment and recovery.
[Source: Ronnie James Dio official site]
This is really heartbreaking news. Being a life-long fan of Dio and all of the bands he’s been a part of, I’m really saddened by this and hope his treatment and recovery are quick. This man is a rock legend and his music has been a major part of my life. He embodies the spirit of heavy metal and has helped keep it alive all these years. Just the fact that in the statement out his health it would say that he would ‘kill the dragon’ goes to show that this man will fight this illness and overcome. My thoughts and prayers will be with him. Long Live Dio! \m/\m/
I was relieved to hear that they caught it early. It isn’t your time Lord and Master of Metal. I am still counting on a Vivian Campbell/Dio reunion!