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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Entertainment
Nicola Donnelly

Aslan 'beyond devastated' as 3Arena concert off due to Christy Dignam's health

Aslan band members are ‘beyond devastated’ their concert planned for the 3Arena this weekend has been postponed after lead singer Christy Dignam has suffered a health set-back.

Christy, 62, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, has been advised by his doctors not to perform on Saturday night as part of their ‘40 years 40 gigs’ tour to mark the popular band’s 40th anniversary.

The Dubliner was diagnosed with an incurable blood cancer known as amyloidosis back in 2013 and has undergone several bouts of chemotherapy treatment since.

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Band members Joe, Alan and Billy took to social media to post a video message announcing the postponement of the gig and an update on Christy’s health.

Aslan's (L to R) Christy Dignam and Billy McGuinness (Gareth Chaney/Collins)

They also reassured fans that the gig would go ahead at a later date and their number one priority is Christy’s health.

“We have some devastating news. Unfortunately we won’t be able to make it to the 3Arena this Saturday,” band member Billy McGuinness said.

“Christy had a set-back with his treatment and on doctor’s advice there’s no way he’s being allowed up on stage on Saturday. We’re devastated as you can imagine,” thanking fans for all their support.

They apologised to fans who have booked hotel accommodation and flights to attend the concert and said they hope “someday we will be ok to do the show in the 3Arena sometime in the future.”

In a statement the band also said: “Christy, Joe, Alan & Billy are beyond devastated to have to share this news with you. We are working to find a new date at 3Arena, so do hold on to your tickets, as they will be fully valid for the rescheduled date,” the statement said.

“As you all know, Christy’s health is a priority and we also have to respect his privacy at these times.”

Christy, from Finglas in Dublin, has spoken out in the past about how his condition has affected his life and his music career saying “it can turn on a sixpence.

“I know I could be gigging on a Saturday night and in hospital on the Monday,” he previously told media outlets.

In a statement on Twitter, 3Arena announced the postponement of the concert and wished Christy a strong and speedy recovery.

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