Emily Brown
'Copacabana' singer Barry Manilow has announced he has been diagnosed with lung cancer at the age of 82.
Manilow took to Instagram to share the news, explaining that his diagnosis came after he had experienced a bout of bronchitis.
In his post, he explained: "We just finished five great Christmas concerts at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert. This marks the seventh time we have done these charity concerts and raised millions for nonprofit organizations throughout the Coachella Valley. Thanks to everyone who bought tickets and celebrated these wonderful charities.
"As many of you know I recently went through six weeks of bronchitis followed by a relapse of another five weeks. Even though I was over the bronchitis and back on stage at the Westgate Las Vegas, my wonderful doctor ordered an MRI just to make sure that everything was OK."
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When the results of the MRI came in, Manilow explained that doctors spotted a 'cancerous spot' on his left lung which needs to be removed.
"It's pure luck (and a great doctor) that it was found so early. That's the good news," he said.
Manilow went on to counter his 'good news' with some 'bad news', explaining that now his 'Christmas A Gift of Love concerts' are over, he'll be undergoing surgery to have the spot removed and therefore has to reschedule some of his upcoming gigs.
"The doctors do not believe it has spread and I'm taking tests to confirm their diagnosis," his post continued. "So, that's it. No chemo. No radiation. Just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns."
"The only follow-up is a month to recover and that means we have to reschedule the January arena concerts," Manilow went on, adding: "I'm very sorry that you have to change your plans.
"Just like you, we were all looking forward to the January shows and hate having to move everything around."
While Manilow has to take a break from his concerts, he assured his followers he's 'counting the days' until he can get back on stage at the Westgate Las Vegas for a series of Valentine's shows scheduled in February.
"Something tells me that February weekend is going to be one big party!," he said.
With his own diagnosis now identified, Manilow signed off his statement by wishing his fans a 'wonderful Christmas' before adding: "And remember, if you have even the slightest symptom, get tested!"
Manilow has been flooded with kind words since sharing the news, with friends, fans and followers wishing him a speedy recovery.