hennemusic

Y&T bassist Phil Kennemore announced on Saturday that he is battling cancer, following confirmation of his diagnosis on Friday.

The news comes just weeks after the band announced that Kennemore was leaving the current Y&T tour to seek treatment for an injured back; War & Peace’s Brad Lang is filling in so that the “Facemelter” tour can continue as scheduled.

Kennemore posted the following to the band’s forum/message board:

To all of my dear friends and fans around the world and on the forum,

Up to now you haven't heard much information (other than about my
extreme back pain) because there really hasn't been much until now. I
hated leaving you all in the dark but I didn't want to say anything
until there was something conclusive to say. We do have a lot more
information now. The number one thing you need to know is that I have
cancer. It wasn't absolutely formally diagnosed until yesterday.

With the bad news I also got the good news that along with surgery and
treatments, I will be back rockin' and rollin'. I'll be getting a hip
replacement as well as back surgery, which means I'll also be more
agile. The doctor said that this is treatable and I'll be walking out
of this place and I'll be able to go on the road and do everything I
need to do to continue my rock 'n' roll life, in due time.

I wanted to thank everyone for your well wishes. I've been sitting
here in the hospital reading all of the things that you've all posted
online, and I want you to know it means so very much to me to see how
much I am loved, supported, and missed. I can really feel the love as
I'm reading. I love reading your posts on the web site forum, and, in
fact, I need to hear it. From here on out, whatever thoughts and
feelings you have, please know that I wish that I could personally
respond to each and every one of you, but I'm not able to right now.

Brad--thank God for Brad! I'm so grateful that he stepped in to help
keep Y&T on tour, bringing Facemelter to the people while I was
ordered to the hospital. Right now I think he's the best guy on
earth!

I'll be released from the hospital within three-to-four weeks,
continuing treatment, and at some point, I'll be returning to the
road. Keep the love and good vibes flowing. Do me a favor and go out
and see the band now--Y&T is kicking serious ass--and I'll be back
rocking with you all soon.

Phil

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