Ann Wilson shares cancer news after reuniting with sister Nancy

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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.” “To the ticket buyers,” she continued, “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.”

“Thank you for all the support. This is just a break. I have a lot more singing to do.”

She signed off with the words “Love, Ann Wilson” and added: “With all due respect, this is the last public statement I wish to make on this matter.”

The website appears to have rescheduled 48 dates in total, all listed as “NEW DATE TBD.” They had shows scheduled through December, culminating in Las Vegas at the Fontainebleau.

“I’m a little disappointed but that means nothing to me. What means everything to me is that you’re healthy,” wrote one fan under Ann’s post. “Concerts and this and that can definitely wait. Take care. We’re all behind you no matter what. Sending you love and support.”

Another commented: “I wish you a speedy recovery, greatest singer in the world!”

A third supporter and countless others expressed similar sentiments. “You are the most important thing. I love you so damn much. You will be in my daily prayers. I look forward to seeing you back on stage soon where you belong my queen. You can do this.”

The legendary sisters come together again

Essentially, Ann and Nancy Wilson formed Heart in 1973, the first female-fronted mega-rock band. They released chart-topping hits like “Crazy on You” (1975), “Magic Man” (1976), and later “Alone” (1987), which remain as popular with the younger generation today as ever.

Until their renewed collaboration, Nancy was on solo tour with her band Trip Sitter.

In October, Nancy and Ann performed together on stage for the first time since 2019, a complete surprise to fans who went crazy when Nancy took the stage at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa, California, to perform one of Heart’s other early chart hits, “Barracuda” (1977).

“Ladies and gentlemen, we have the answer to a question with us tonight,” said Ann. “A very, very good friend, more than a friend. Let’s get her out. Come on.”

Later, the legendary siblings gave press interviews together, in which they also discussed their private problems, and announced, to the great delight of their fans, that they would finally go on tour together again.

Ann’s manager Dave Frey said in a statement to the WashingtonPostsummed it up perfectly. “When Nancy sings with Ann, it’s like Keith (Richards) singing with Mick (Jagger),” said Frey, comparing their energy to that of the legendary Rolling Stones duo. “That’s the secret ingredient. I didn’t realize it until I heard it.”

Therefore, it is hard to imagine that Ann’s health condition means additional pressure for her as an artist, but health must always come first – and thankfully her loyal fans support that. Finally, she has clarified that this is only a postponement and not a cancellation.

Communicating a cancer diagnosis

Ann has not yet disclosed what type of cancer she has been diagnosed with. It is up to her if and when she wants to share.

Some people battling an illness or cancer share their experiences as widely as possible, while others prefer to keep them to themselves or discuss them only with loved ones. The experts at SurvivorNet say both approaches and everything in between are valid.

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“Patients who have just been diagnosed with cancer sometimes wonder how to handle the cancer diagnosis in social situations,” explained psychiatrist Dr. Lori Plutchik in a previous interview with SurvivorNet.

Questions patients should consider include, “How much information should they share and who should they share the information with?” Plutchik says.

“There is no one right way to deal with this diagnosis. People should do what feels right for them.”

Respect a person’s wishes about when and how to share their cancer diagnosis.

Cancer can last for months or even years, meaning people experience a lot of uncertainty before they are clear about their health status. This uncertainty can affect when a patient is ready to share their diagnosis, Dr. Plutchik explained.

She also stressed that families of cancer patients should respect their wishes when it comes to announcing the diagnosis. Let the person know that you are there for them and will support them in any way you can.

How to ask for support

It’s normal to feel a range of different emotions after being diagnosed with cancer – from fear to anger to uncertainty. In addition to creating a treatment plan with your doctors, it’s important that you also get the mental health support you need. This is a difficult time and many people find that they need a little extra support to get through it.

Dr. Plutchik suggests the following steps after a cancer diagnosis:

• Step #1: Seek additional support if needed (or talk to a mental health professional or attend a support group).
• Step #2: Be sure to find a psychologist who has experience helping people in your situation.
• Step 3: Stay in touch with your care team. This may include your friends and family, your therapist, and the doctors treating your cancer.

“Some people don’t need to go beyond their circle of family and friends. They feel they get enough support there,” said psychiatrist Dr. Plutchik. “But for people who feel they need something more, it’s important to reach out to a mental health professional.”

Dr. Plutchik recommends finding a psychologist who has experience helping people through their cancer treatment and maintaining contact with your care team so everyone can focus on a common goal.

“Make sure the psychologist you work with liaises with the rest of your team, the oncologist, the surgeon, with your consent. It can also be helpful to liaise with family, friends and other caregivers who may be involved in the person’s treatment.”

This type of connected care ensures that everyone is on the same page when it comes to providing the best possible support to a patient.

Questions to ask your doctor

• Where can I find additional support if I have mental health problems?
• Are there support groups for people like me in your area?
• Can you recommend a psychologist for my situation?
• Does my situation require medication for my mental health and how might this impact my cancer treatment plan?

Learn more about SurvivorNet’s rigorous medical review process.