Ronnie Platt has revealed that he’s been diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
The 64-year-old Kansas lead singer shared the news in a post on Facebook on Feb. 15.
“For all of you asking, Tuesday I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer but before everyone gets all excited, it has a 99% survival rate, it has not spread,” Platt wrote. “It’s contained to my thyroid. I just have to have my thyroid removed. Go through some rehab time and be right back in the saddle.”
Platt went on to thank the iconic rock band’s fans for their support after the group had to reschedule and cancel multiple shows.
“I sincerely appreciate everyone’s positive thoughts and prayers,” Platt continued. “I have some absolutely amazing people going to bat for me!! as it has been put to me, this is just a bump in the road and will be behind me very soon! so everyone please CARRY ON!”
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Thyroid cancer might not cause any symptoms at first. But as it grows, it can cause signs and symptoms, such as swelling in your neck, voice changes and difficulty swallowing.”
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The band rescheduled shows in Catoosa, Okla. and Durant, Okla. for dates in November and canceled two shows in New Orleans and Lake Charles, La., citing “band illness and doctor advisement.”
“Our goal is to be back on the road as soon as possible,” assistant band manager J.R. Rees told the site Ultimate Classic Rock. “Right now, we’re all focused on supporting Ronnie through this.”
Kansas was formed in 1973 and is known for hits like “Carry On My Wayward Son” and “Dust in the Wind.” Platt joined as the group’s lead vocalist in 2014. The group’s most recent album, The Absence of Presence, was released in July 2020.
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