Country Music Icon Raul Malo Battles Cancer: 'Time to Rest and Recover'
MAVERICKS MANIA: Raul Malo Battles Stage 4 Colon Cancer with a Fighter's Spirit
The music world is reeling as news breaks out that Raul Malo, the charismatic frontman of The Mavericks, has been dealt another blow in his ongoing battle against cancer. In a heart-wrenching Instagram post, the 60-year-old Grammy winner shared a glimpse into his grueling journey with stage 4 colon cancer, which has seen him in and out of hospitals since last year.
The Unpredictable Beast
Malo's latest update reveals that he has developed leptomeningeal disease (LMD), a complication where cancer cells spread to the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This diagnosis is a harsh reminder of the unpredictable nature of cancer, which Malo himself described as "indiscriminatory." His words were laced with a sense of resignation, yet determination: "Things have taken a turn... treatment for this is radiation, which I will start tomorrow, followed by chemo and maybe some alternative therapies."
A New Challenge
The diagnosis has forced The Mavericks to cancel numerous dates, including the upcoming shows in Nashville, TN (December 5-6). Malo's medical team has made it clear that he needs time to rest and recover. However, fans can hold onto their tickets for these scheduled events as the band is planning a special announcement soon.
A Message of Hope
In his post, Malo expressed gratitude towards his family, including his wife Betty (an amazing partner in every sense) and their three sons - Dino, Vincent, and Max. He also thanked his team, road crew, band members, friends, and fans for their unwavering support. "I want to let everybody know, I am not alone or scared," he wrote. "Your love, prayers, and well wishes have not gone unnoticed."
Behind-the-Scenes
The Mavericks' lead singer-guitarist has been on a rollercoaster ride of health issues in recent months. Last December, he underwent liver surgery, and now faces hernia surgery in January to repair complications from the previous operation. Despite this, Malo remains optimistic about his prospects: "We don't know what this will look like a couple months from now, but we are going into it with full steam ahead."
A Legacy of Resilience
The Mavericks' multicultural Americana sound has captivated fans worldwide, with over 666K monthly visitors on Spotify and 15 chart-topping hits on the American Billboard Hot Country Songs charts. With their music reaching new heights, Malo's health struggles have only strengthened his resolve to "fight, recover, rest, repeat." As one of the most beloved figures in country music, Raul Malo's spirit is a testament to the human will to overcome adversity.
A Message from The Mavericks' Frontman
The news of Malo's diagnosis has sparked an outpouring of love and support from fans across the globe. As he embarks on this challenging journey ahead, one thing is certain: Raul Malo's indomitable spirit will continue to inspire us all.
By his side through it all are his family and friends, who have been a constant source of strength and comfort. Dwight Yoakam, his band, and crew have also shown immense kindness and understanding throughout this ordeal. As The Mavericks' lead singer-guitarist navigates the twists and turns of cancer treatment, fans can take heart in knowing that they are not alone in this fight.
The story of Raul Malo is one for the ages - a tale of courage, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity. As he battles stage 4 colon cancer with a fighter's spirit, we at The Scholarly Note want to send our heartfelt best wishes to this incredible artist and his loved ones.
