In his first interview after disclosing publicly that he had stomach cancer earlier this year, Toby Keith says that he is “thinking about getting back into fighting form.”
Even while he acknowledged that his condition is “quite debilitating,” Keith said, “as long as everything stays hunky-dory, then we’ll look at something wonderful in the future.”
Keith spoke with CMT Hot 20 Countdown about his predicament. He continued, “I need a little time to just rest and recover.”
Keith made a health-related announcement in June and canceled plans so he could get treatment. Yet he has made a few public appearances, one of which was in Lexington, Kentucky’s Jeff Ruby Steakhouse in November, where he performed the Lynyrd Skynyrd songs “I Love This Bar” and “Sweet Home Alabama” in concert.
This week, Keith shared a sweet photo of a young cancer patient on Instagram with the caption, “Thumbs up if you’re enjoying #GivingTuesday by donating to the @tkfoundation1! With the help of your donations, the OK Kids Korral can provide families with children battling cancer with a safe haven away from home. Through the TK Foundation, Keith provides assistance to young cancer patients.
Toby Keith, who has received seven Grammy nominations and two Artist of the Year honors from the Academy of Country Music, revealed on Sunday that he has stomach cancer.
On social media, Keith, 60, posted updates on his health.
On Instagram, he wrote, “Last fall I was diagnosed with stomach cancer.” “I’ve had radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery during the last six months. So far, the news has been good, but I need a moment to unwind, rest, and breathe. I am looking forward to spending time with my family. However, I’ll undoubtedly run into the fans soon. I cannot wait.
Elaine Schock, Keith’s publicist, has stated that Keith won’t be attending his scheduled appearances “for now.” His most recent tour got underway this next Friday.
From his most recent album, “Peso in My Pocket,” the country hit “Old School” peaked at number 25.
Keith was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in November of last year. He recently performed at the Heroes Honor Festival at Daytona International Speedway.
When Keith’s illness was revealed, numerous well-known acquaintances expressed their sorrow.
John from Big & Rich Rich wrote on Twitter, “Hang in there, @tobykeith.”
I wish you strength and health, dear friend! ESPN anchor Hannah Storm responded.
Sammy Hagar, a musician, tweeted a photo of the two with the following message: “Wishing my big buddy a rapid recovery and a whole lotta love from most redheads worldwide.”
Keith, an Oklahoma native, played football in the USFL and worked in the oil business prior to beginning his music career. His 1993 self-titled Mercury debut album, which sold more than a million copies, earned a platinum certification.
Keith is best recognized for his 2002 song “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American),” which is notable for its conservative beliefs and was largely inspired by the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
