Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell has revealed that his cancer has returned and that it will prevent him for touring North America with the group this summer.
Campbell was first diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2013 and, after extensive chemotherapy treatements, has been battling the health issue both on and off the road after undergoing a stem cell transplant last fall.
“I'm saddened by the fact that my cancer has returned,” says Campbell. “However, I'm beyond consolation that it's return will prevent me from being able to do my job for a while. I’m still working on a schedule of treatment with my doctors, but I will see you all very soon. My apologies.”
Def Leppard are scheduled to kick off a North American tour with Styx and Tesla in Tampa, FL on June 23.
At press time, the band had yet to announce plans for the trek without Campbell; last fall, the group brought in Steve Brown of Trixter to perform a series of dates in his absence from the lineup.
On June 2, Campbell revealed he was experiencing his first illness since the transplant.
“Oslo tonight, and I have a sniffle,” he wrote. “This is the first time I've been ill since the stem cell transplant and it's hit me rather hard; I feel very weak, so apologies to all who expected more of me tonight. Going back to the hotel to sleep.”
The guitarist was feeling somewhat better three days later, writing “Great show last night at Sweden Rock. That was our 3rd time headlining there and probably the best one yet. Thank you, Sweden!
“Happy to say the sniffle is much better, with just a bunch of goop being coughed up now. Too much information? Probably.”
On Sunday, the guitarist thanked fans for their ongoing support.
“I'm overwhelmed by the support and well-wishes that everyone has sent to me,” Campbell posted. “Thank you all so very much - it means a lot to me. Looking on the bright side: at least I'm getting to spend father's day with my daughters. Yay for that!”
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Search Def Leppard at hennemusic
