Heart Singer announces cancer diagnosis

July 3, 2024

“This is just a break. I have a lot more singing to do.”

By Jamie Lee

July 3, 2024, Published 11:34 AM ET

Source: Getty Images

Just over a month after rock band Heart canceled their summer European concert dates, singer Ann Wilson announced on Instagram in early July 2024 that she had been diagnosed with cancer and the band would postpone their Royal Flush tour.

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But how is Ann? Here’s what we know about the situation so far, and what Ann has said about her recovery and her promise to get back on tour soon.

Source: Getty Images

Heart sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson in the 70s

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How is Ann Wilson’s health?

In her July 2 announcement, Ann assured fans that she was doing “great” after undergoing surgery to remove an organ that turned out to be cancerous.

Her full statement reads: “Dear friends, I recently had surgery to remove something that turned out to be cancerous. The surgery was successful and I feel great, but my doctors are now advising me to undergo preventative chemotherapy and I have decided to do that.”

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“And that’s why my doctors have advised me to stay off the stage for the rest of the year to fully recover,” she continued, adding, “To ticket buyers: I really wish we could do these performances. Please know that I absolutely plan to be back on stage in 2025. My team is sorting out those details and we will let you know the plan as soon as possible.”

Finally, she thanked her fans for their support, but stressed that this was “just a break” and added: “I still have a lot more to sing.”

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This comes after the band announced on May 30 that they were cancelling their June and July concert dates in Europe. The reason given was that Ann was undergoing a “time-sensitive but routine medical procedure for which the recovery time is at least six weeks.” On her own Instagram page at the time, Ann wrote: “I am fine! Please do not worry. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. It is certainly an inconvenience for me.”

As Ann continues to focus on her recovery, fans and fellow musicians are wishing her well and leaving her encouraging messages on social media.

“Our sweet queen,” wrote Wilson Phillips singer Carnie Wilson (who is not related to Ann). “Make a full recovery quickly and come back even stronger because that is who you are!!!!!!”

German singer Doro added: “We love you! 💜💜💜💜We send you lots of prayers and angels! 👼🫶🙏💛”