Aussie music legend John Farnham is now recovering in hospital after a marathon operation to remove a cancerous growth with his family revealing the cancer was discovered in his mouth.
The 73-year-old revealed his shock diagnosis on Tuesday shortly before undergoing surgery.
“Cancer diagnosis is something that so many people face every single day, and countless others have walked this path before me,” Farnham said in a statement.
“The one thing I know for sure is that we have the very best specialist healthcare professionals in Victoria, and we can all be grateful for that. I know I am.”
Farnham’s family has confirmed the 11.5-hour operation was a success and he is now recovering in ICU.
“We are genuinely overwhelmed by the incredible wave of support, love and messages we’ve received from so many people around Australia. This means so much to us as a family. Thank you to everyone for this. John will be blown away,” Farnham’s wife Jill said in a statement.
“There is still a long road of recovery and healing ahead of us, but we know John is up for that task.”
Farnham’s sons Rob and James have praised health professionalss, saying they are in “awe” of those who have helped them through this time.
“All of you undertook this big job and have given us a magnificent outcome. To all the surgeons, doctors, nurses and consultants, thank you one and also very much.”
Farnham is expected to remain in hospital for a period of time for recovery and post-operative treatment.
The music legend’s news shockwaves across the entertainment industry on Tuesday with celebrities from across Australia and around the world sending their best wishes.
Daryl Braithwaite posted on Facebook “I am thinking of you John Farnham. You need to know that we all want and need to hear you sing again.”
Singer Kate Ceberano quoted lyrics from Jesus Christ Superstar which the pair starred in 1992.
“Sleep and shall sooth (sic) you, calm you and anoint you, myrrh for your hot forehead..don’t you know everything’s alright yes, everything’s fine.”
Sending my most fervent best wishes to @johnfarnham “sleep and shall sooth you, calm you and Anoint you, myrrh for your hot forehead….don’t you know everything’s alright yes, everything’s fine. And we want you to sleep well tonight” Stay strong, we love you john xx pic.twitter.com/IIvAI7cUfU
— Kate Ceberano AM (@KateCeberano) August 23, 2022
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also expressed well wishes for the music star.
“All Australians love John Farnham and we wish all the best for him and his family at this time; it is difficult news for people to have received this morning,” Mr Albanese said on Tuesday.
