Toby Keith Opens Up About Health Struggles and Cancels Performances
Country music star Toby Keith recently revealed his battle with stomach cancer, which he was diagnosed with in the fall of 2021. Keith has been undergoing treatment since then and took to his social media platforms to share an update on his health. In a message to his fans, Keith stated, “I’ve spent the last six months receiving chemo, radiation, and surgery. So far, so good. I need some time to breathe, recover, and rest.”
Despite his health challenges, Keith expressed his gratitude towards his friends and supporters, emphasizing his eagerness to spend time with his family. He assured fans that he would return to performing for them as soon as possible. However, the status of his upcoming scheduled performances remained uncertain. According to his website, Keith was supposed to have a performance on June 17 in Wheaton, Illinois.
Following Keith’s announcement, the Ohio State Fair confirmed the cancellation of his July 28 event in Columbus, Ohio. Keith’s spokeswoman, Elaine Schock, mentioned that additional tour dates might also be canceled, although the exact number was not yet determined.
In addition to his health update, Keith’s website also highlighted the release of his latest album, “Peso in my Pocket.” The album, which came out last year after a long hiatus from touring due to the Covid pandemic, showcased songs that Keith came up with spontaneously during his runs.
“I would review the song ideas I had on my phone before starting my run, and then I would take off,” Keith explained. “Time would fly by, and I would constantly be working and grinding gears in my mind about the songs. When I got home, I would turn on my phone’s recorder and capture whatever I could.”
Keith’s health journey has undoubtedly brought challenges and uncertainties, leading to the cancellation of some of his scheduled performances. However, his resilience and dedication to his music remain evident as he continues to prioritize his recovery and express his gratitude to his loyal fanbase. As fans, we will eagerly await his return to the stage and wish him a successful recovery.