Rockstar David Roach announced he’s been diagnosed with ‘very aggressive’ cancer in a health update on Monday.
The musician, who has fronted American heavy metal band Junkyard since 1987, revealed has squamous cell carcinoma which is ‘affecting his head, neck, and throat.’
Last week, David admitted recent results ‘completely shattered our world’ with the band starting a Go Fund Me to help with medical costs.
In an update shared the the band’s Instagram a message from the singer and his fiancée Jennifer said: ‘First off, we want to thank you all for the overwhelming support and love you’ve shown us during this incredibly challenging time.
‘We wish we could respond to each of you, but honestly, there are no words right now. We’re still struggling to process the news we received on Tuesday.
‘After David’s ongoing fever and cough led us to the ER, we got results that have completely shattered our world.’
Rockstar David Roach announced he’s been diagnosed with ‘very aggressive’ cancer in a health update on Monday
The musician, who has fronted American heavy metal band Junkyard since 1987, revealed has squamous cell carcinoma which is ‘affecting his head, neck, and throat’ (pictured in 1991)
They continued: ‘It’s devastating and life-altering, and we’re trying to navigate through the emotions and uncertainty that come with it.
‘David is showing such incredible strength and resilience, and even in the midst of this darkness, he’s still managing to keep his sense of humor. It’s a reminder of how amazing he is.
‘But we know this journey ahead will be extremely tough, David made it clear he is not giving up hope and we’re going to need all of your love and prayers.
‘Thank you for standing by us. Your kindness and support mean everything to us. Please keep David in your thoughts as we take this one step at a time.’
Squamous cell carcinoma is a non melanoma skin cancer. The main difference between both is the type of cell in which they develop and the pace at which they develop.
Melanoma tends to spread faster in your body than non-melanoma.
Non melanoma skin cancer accounts for 20 per cent of all cancers and 90 per cent of all skin cancers.
While it is highly survivable in early stages, when spotted late it can spread to other areas of the body, making it more difficult to treat.
Last week, David admitted recent results ‘completely shattered our world’ with the band starting a Go Fund Me to help with medical costs
An update read: ‘After David’s ongoing fever and cough led us to the ER, we got results that have completely shattered our world’ (pictured in 2015)
A statement previously published by the band read: ‘As many of you know, David who is a friend to all is in the fight of his life battling aggressive squamous cell carcinoma affecting his head, neck, and throat.
‘Currently David requires around the clock care and supervision. David’s fiancée Jennifer has had to step away from traditional employment to become his full time care giver.
‘While they have applied for disability and full time caregivers assistance it is an extremely long waiting period to go through the processing and receive approval. This has put them in a dire situation.
‘This has been a devastating blow for David especially after he finally found happiness, stability, and things were going well for him.’