Joe Yates
A rock star is currently 'in the fight of his life' after being diagnosed with an 'aggressive' cancer that has spread to multiple parts of his body.
Junkyard frontman David Roach discovered on last Tuesday (June 24) that his squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis - a type of skin cancer - is 'life-altering' having spread to his head, neck and throat, leaving him needing round-the-clock care.
The rock band took to Instagram in January to break the news that the singer, who has been performing in the band for more than three decades, is battling cancer.
The post read in part: "We all know and love David Roach - not just as our incredible singer, but as a true friend, an inspiration, and a fighter. Right now, he’s facing one of the toughest battles of his life: an aggressive cancer diagnosis.
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"To help with the overwhelming medical expenses David is selling his plaque art. Every purchase, share, and donation can make a real difference in getting him the care he needs.
"If you can contribute in any way - whether by buying his art, picking up some merch, or simply spreading the word - it would mean the world."
The 'Hollywood' rocker has since taken to the social media platform to explain how a common symptom led him to visit the ER months after having already been diagnosed with the deadly disease.
"First off, we want to thank you all for the overwhelming support and love you’ve shown us during this incredibly challenging time," the post, credited to Roach and his fiancée Jennifer, read.
"We wish we could respond to each of you, but honestly, there are no words right now. We’re still struggling to process the news we received on Tuesday.
"After David’s ongoing fever and cough led us to the ER, we got results that have completely shattered our world. It’s devastating and life-altering, and we’re trying to navigate through the emotions and uncertainty that come with it."
The joint-statement continued: "David is showing such incredible strength and resilience, and even in the midst of this darkness, he’s still managing to keep his sense of humor. It’s a reminder of how amazing he is.
"But we know this journey ahead will be extremely tough, David made it clear he is not giving up hope and we’re going to need all of your love and prayers.
"Thank you for standing by us. Your kindness and support mean everything to us. Please keep David in your thoughts as we take this one step at a time. With all our love, David and Jennifer."
A GoFundMe has since been set up to support Roach, who has been described as possessing a 'knack for making people feel special and appreciated', and Jennifer - who has had to step away from her employment to become his full-time carer.
"Right now, though, David is in a serious situation. The financial strain from medical expenses and daily living costs is piling up, and he’s struggling to keep a roof over his head without any income while fighting this cancer," the page notes.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.