After learning that John Farnham has developed a cancerous growth, the “You’re the Voice” singer has undergone a long and intensive surgical procedure in efforts to remove it.
The operation took place in a hospital in Melbourne on the morning of August 23 and finished at 7:30pm, according to a family spokesperson.
Farnham, 73, is in a stable condition and was transferred to an intensive care unit, with a further statement issued on behalf of the family stating that he is grateful to have the best specialist care in the world,.
“Cancer diagnosis is something that so many people face every single day, and countless others have walked this path before me,” he said.
“The one thing I know for sure is that we have the best specialist healthcare professionals in Victoria, and we can all be grateful for that. I know I am.”
Richard Wilkins shares the 73-year-old is in good spirits and had been “cracking jokes with the doctors” before the surgery.
“Surgeons are confident they can get it all and that the operation will be successful,” Wilkins said.
Having previous health scares in the past, the singer was hospitalised with a severe kidney infection in 2019, this episode prompted him to quit smoking and cut back on alcohol, focusing on a healthy lifestyle.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it was difficult to hear the news that Farnham had been diagnosed with cancer.
“All Australians love John Farnham,” Albanese said. “John Farnham has been and continues to be a great Australian. He has not only provided entertainment for Australians over many decades, he also has been a contributor to the nation.”
Former Labor leader Bill Shorten has wished Farnham “all the best [with his] surgery and recovery”.
Thinking of @johnfarnham and his family and friends. John, wishing you all the best for your surgery today and for your recovery.
— Bill Shorten (@billshortenmp) August 22, 2022
US singer Richard Marx, who has performed with Farnham on various occasions and collaborated with the musician on his 1994 album Then Again, said he was “sending much love, strength and healing to my friend the great John Farnham and to his lovely family”.
Sending much love, strength and healing to my friend the great #JohnFarnham and to his lovely family.
— Richard Marx (@richardmarx) August 22, 2022
Image: Getty Images
This article first appeared on OverSixty.