Welsh comedian Rhod Gilbert has issued the following statement on his Facebook page explaining that he is currently being treated in a cancer centre that he is a patron of.
"As a proud patron of Velindre Cancer Centre, I’ve trekked the world, hosted chaotic quizzes and star-studded comedy nights. I’ve met and made friends with so many inspirational staff, patients and their families. It has been a huge part of my life for the last ten years.
So while I never imagined that I would be a patient here, I know better than anyone that I am in the best possible hands. The NHS care I’m receiving is incredible.
I wouldn't wish this on anyone...but who knows, maybe I'll come out the other end with a new stand-up show and a 40 minute rant about orange squash
Thank you everyone for your support over the last few weeks and months (and years). I’ll be disappearing for a while and won’t be commenting further, at least not for now, whilst I focus on my recovery.
Rhod x"
Gilbert recently postponed the remaining dates of his current Book of John tour and explained that this was for health reasons:
"As many of you will know, I’ve been struggling with pain in my neck and throat over the past few months. I’ve been receiving treatment, and have continued to tour where possible.
I had sincerely hoped to go ahead with all dates as scheduled, but I’m afraid that is not going to be possible. I am due to have surgery next week and will be hanging up my boots for a while whilst I recuperate.
We are currently working to reschedule all remaining shows for early 2023 (as-well as Bath and Barnstaple, which have already been postponed). All original tickets will be valid for the new dates so please bear with us whilst we work everything out, and expect an update early next week.
I know how frustrating this is. We do not take these decisions lightly, and we are so sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you all - along with all the wonderful venues and staff, for your patience and understanding.
I have loved every one of the 200 or so ‘Book of John’ shows we have done. I am genuinely gutted that we didn’t get to do the last 7 shows as planned, but, rest assured, we will do everything we can to finish what we started!
Thanks for your continuing support…
And HUGE apologies
Rhod x"
Picture: Rhod Gilbert/Facebook